Prevalence of Forward Head Posture in Electronic Gamers and Associated Factors
PDF Prevalence of Forward Head Posture in Electronic Gamers and Associated Factors

Keywords

Forward head posture
Head-Down Tilt
Electronic Gamers
Prevalence
Video Games

How to Cite

Ashok, K., Purushothaman, V., & Muniandy, Y. (2020). Prevalence of Forward Head Posture in Electronic Gamers and Associated Factors. International Journal of Aging Health and Movement, 2(2), 19-27. Retrieved from http://www.ijahm.com/index.php/IJAHM/article/view/14

Abstract

Background: Technology is a crucial component of our daily lives, whether it is job-related or even personal usage and only a few who can imagine life without it. There are many advantages with technology such as improving work productivity and efficacy, however, using technology for an extended period of time can place a substantial amount of load to the neck musculature leading to musculoskeletal disorder. It is observed that the posture of human body precisely cervical spine tends to shift forward on using the electronic device. Objective: The objective of our current study is to identify the prevalence of forward head and the associated factors among electronic gamers.  Methods: A cross-sectional study design was adopted with total of 160 participants (88 females and 72 males) with the age range between 18 to 40 (22.8 + 30) were recruited using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Forward head posture angles were measured using Photogrammetry method and were analyzed using postural software, web plot digitizer software (WPD). Results: A total of 97 participants (60.63%) were discovered to have forward head posture. The results of Pearson correlation demonstrate there is no correlation exist between the device used for gaming and FHP, r (158) = 0.01, p = 0.97 and the breaks are taken in between the gaming with FHP, r (158) = 0.08, p=0.31. However, there is moderate correlation exist between the duration of gaming and forward head posture r (158) = -0.73, p <0.01. These results suggest that individual who spend longer hours on their electronic gaming devices have a high risk of developing forward head posture due to the static loading that acts on the cervical spine. Conclusions: Correction and prevention of forward head is necessary for view of high incidence. Proper education and awareness on ill effects of prolonged usage of gaming devices may be beneficial in preventing FHP.

PDF Prevalence of Forward Head Posture in Electronic Gamers and Associated Factors
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