AIIMS study reveals 5 chronic health risks every gadget-obsessed teenager faces

In today’s gadget-driven world, Delhi’s teenagers are facing a hidden health crisis. Hours spent slouched over phones, sitting for long stretches in classrooms, and skipping warm-ups before sports are already taking a toll on their bodies. A recent study by AIIMS, funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), highlights the alarming impact of this sedentary lifestyle on adolescents aged 15–18 years.

Forward Posture, Back Pain and Muscle Tightness: Common Problems Among Gadget-Glued Teens

The two-year research project, which began in October 2023 and is concluding this month, monitored 380 students from two private schools. AIIMS researchers observed a range of issues, including forward posture, neck and shoulder pain, lower back discomfort, iliotibial (IT) band tightness, flat feet, and reduced hamstring flexibility.

"These issues are rooted in today's sedentary lifestyle, long hours on mobiles and computers, less outdoor play, no barefoot activities, and even the decline of traditional postures like cross-legged sitting or using Indian-style toilets, which naturally build flexibility," told TOI members of the research team.

Traditional Postures and Barefoot Activities Could Protect Teenagers’ Health

The study emphasised that simple traditional habits, such as squatting, cross-legged sitting, and walking barefoot, provide natural self-stretching movements that maintain flexibility. “Most teenagers today miss out on these habits, which has long-term consequences for posture and musculoskeletal health,” TOI quoted the researchers.

How Physiotherapy Interventions are Showing Promising Results

Led by Dr Samarth Mittal, additional professor at JPNA Trauma Centre, AIIMS, and co-investigator Dr A S Moorthy, PhD, in-charge Physiotherapist at AIIMS Burns and Plastic Surgery Department, the study is also testing physiotherapy-based interventions.

During a 12-week intervention, students showed improved movement patterns, strength, and flexibility. Researchers are continuing a 24-week follow-up to measure sustained improvements. “We observed better functional movement and flexibility among students who underwent physiotherapy-based training,” TOI reported, citing the research team.

Why Early Habit Changes are Crucial to Prevent Chronic Issues

Experts emphasise that the bigger challenge is altering daily routines. Teenagers may not realise it, but their sedentary habits are already affecting their health. "The earlier we act, the healthier their future will be," TOI quoted the research team, stressing that small changes, warm-up exercises before sports, reducing screen time, spending time outdoors barefoot, and practising traditional postures, can prevent long-term discomfort.

Integrating Physiotherapy Into Schools Could Transform Adolescent Health

The AIIMS team recommends including physiotherapy guidance in school curricula to ensure proper training during sports, prevent injuries, and build lifelong healthy habits. "With systematic physiotherapy from a young age, our country can not only improve adolescent health but also nurture sporting talent," TOI reported one of the investigators as saying.

Long-Term Implications for India’s Teen Health Policy

As the study concludes its second year, experts believe the findings could influence future adolescent health policies. “This is not just about back pain today, it's about preventing chronic issues tomorrow,” TOI quoted a research team member, adding, “Healthy habits learned in teenage years will protect these children well into adulthood.”

Inputs from TOI