As we walk down the street, it’s hard to miss the ubiquitous presence of smartphones in our hands. While cell phones have become an integral part of our lives, their constant use while walking can lead to a variety of issues that impact our health and safety. The bent arm holding the phone and tilted head disrupt the natural arm swing and alignment of the spine, contributing to musculoskeletal problems like shoulder pain.
The forward position of the head while looking at the phone screen strains the neck and upper back muscles, leading to pain. Moreover, visual fatigue can occur due to constantly staring at the screen, affecting our eyes’ ability to focus on different distances. Attention is also diverted from our surroundings when engrossed in our phones, impacting our coordination and control of locomotion. Studies have shown that using a cellphone while walking alters our walking pattern, reducing speed, increasing deviation, and affecting overall balance and stability.
Furthermore, research has linked using mobile phones while walking with an increased risk of falls and collisions. This is because we are not fully aware of our surroundings when we are absorbed in our phones. The cognitive load of this activity can also affect how we react to changes in the environment around us, increasing the risk of accidents.
To avoid these problems and maintain good health while using smartphones on-the-go, experts recommend practicing mindfulness and limiting cell phone use while walking. By embracing the concept of ‘smombies,’ we can improve our walking posture and overall well-being by staying present in our surroundings and avoiding distractions caused by technology.
In conclusion, smartphones have become essential tools for communication and entertainment in modern life. However, their constant use while walking can cause several issues related to posture, attention span, balance stability as well as an increased risk of accidents. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to practice mindfulness or limit their cell phone use while walking to avoid these problems altogether.
