Who are the millennials? They are a group of people typically born between the 1980s and 2000s, and are generally characterized as hip, independent thinkers.
Interestingly enough, they cite technology use as the most defining characteristic of their generation. They are connected in various ways, and technology can be central to the way they live, work and play. However, many may not account for the impact technology has on their health, including their musculoskeletal (MSK) system. Only now are we starting to understand how technology use may be a risk factor for MSK conditions, which includes back and neck pain.
It may be safe to assume that the impacts of prolonged technology use will likely not be well understood for years to come. However, clinically we are starting to see the impact it is having on the MSK health of millennials. Research has found a few points to consider:
· An average adult glances down at their smartphone five times a day, in contrast to an average of 109 times a day for a millennial.
· It is estimated that 60 per cent of adults spend five or more hours a day in front of an electronic device, but 40 per cent of millennials spend over nine hours in front of an electronic device.
· Use of computers, tablets and mobile devices may result in increased bad posture, which can lead to neck and back pain. “Text neck” is a term used to refer to the prolonged use of handheld devices and resulting neck pain.
Technological advancements have created many amazing benefits in our lives, but overconsumption of these devices has led to problems for our health and well-being. The millennial generation’s use of things such as tablets and smartphones may be linked to an in increase in sedentary lifestyles and postural problems, which can be problematic for the musculoskeletal system.
In fact, we don’t have to look far to see the impact of a sedentary lifestyle on the MSK system. Research has shown that 84 per cent of surveyed millennials in the UK experienced back pain. Estimated projections revealed that younger workers lost, on average, 1.5 or more days than older workers.
As an individuals ages, it is presumed that the impact of unhealthy lifestyle choices and prior injuries may have a profoundly negative impact, and unfortunately be a heavy burden on the health-care system.
To minimize the potential impact of this, Canadians are encouraged to take measures to counteract the risks by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Here are a few tips to minimize that risk:
· Take designated breaks from technology
· Exercise daily
· Practise postural awareness
· Visit your chiropractor regularly to prevent or manage MSK conditions
Reflecting on all this information, it’s easy to see the importance of becoming aware of how technology can impact the MSK system. Looking ahead, millennials may literally be facing a serious pain in the neck because of their reliance on technology.
A chiropractor can advise you on the best way to improve your MSK system and prevent painful conditions down the road based on your current lifestyle.
Dr. Jeremy Buhay is the owner of Marine Chiropractic & Wellness in Powell River.
