Excessive Use of Game Devices Can Cause Hunched Backs

Excessive use of game boy and other devices may trigger hunched backs among children, sources told the Irish Times.

Dutch orthopedic specialists identified the condition as "Gameboy back", a type of curvature that affects the spine among children who are frequently exposed to using game consoles with their backs hunched.

The medics told the Irish Times that this condition is becoming more common among children and teenagers from eight to 18 years old.

These children usually visit their family doctors and complain of back pains who used to only be common among elderly workers.

Surgeons Piet van Loon and Andre Soeterbroek told the Irish Times that the curvature of the spine was seen among children 100 years ago when child labor was still very common but now it is most commonly seen among children who often use game devices .

Dr. Van Loon and Dr. Soeterbroek are the authors of the article published in the Dutch medical magazine, Medisch Contact.

They further expressed that spine curvature among children can be compared to bonsai trees. If the spine and the bones are forced toward a certain direction over a long period of time, it would develop in that same formation.

But both doctors clarified that the game devices itself are not necessarily the problem. Posture and good sitting habits are most important.

The surgeons also suggested that children should check whether they are developing spine curvature by bending over to touch their toes. Those with curvature of the spine will not be able to flex or touch their toes.