How Smartphones May Be Reshaping Our Skeletons: Fact or Fiction?

In recent years, a fascinating new theory has emerged; could excessive smartphone use actually reshape our skeletons? This idea, sparked by a scientific study, suggests that the prolonged use of phones and tablets might be causing noticeable changes to our bones—especially in ways we wouldn’t typically expect.

Researchers David Shahar and Mark Sayers, specialists in biomechanics from Australia's University of the Sunshine Coast, have led this intriguing study. Biomechanics focuses on how the mechanical principles of movement apply to living organisms, whether it’s how humans walk or how birds flap their wings. Shahar and Sayers took it a step further by applying a method known as osteobiography, which examines how a person's lifestyle can impact their bones.

It has long been understood that our skeletons adapt to our daily habits. Historical examples, like those found on the Pacific island of Tinian in 1924, reveal that bones can tell us a lot about the lives people once lived. The large bones of these ancient islanders, for instance, were linked to the physical labor involved in moving heavy stones. Similarly, Shahar and Sayers believe that today’s technology is reshaping the bones of young people, particularly through their constant use of smartphones and tablets.

The key discovery in their research involves something called the external occipital protuberance (EOP), a small bony bump located at the back of the skull. Some experts have referred to it more dramatically as "phone bone" or even a "horn." This bony growth is attached to the nuchal ligament, which connects neck muscles to the skull. The EOP acts as an anchor, providing support for the neck.

In their study, Shahar and Sayers reviewed chiropractors’ x-rays of individuals aged 18 to 86 to assess how modern lifestyles are impacting the skeleton. They hypothesized that the forward tilt of the head, commonly seen when people are engrossed in their screens, is exerting additional pressure on the neck and skull. Over time, this pressure causes the EOP to grow longer, with some measurements reaching several millimeters. This phenomenon has been coined "text neck."

Interestingly, their findings revealed that the condition was more prevalent in men. In a 2016 study of 218 people, 67% of men had larger EOPs compared to only 20% of women. By 2018, after examining over 1,200 individuals, they discovered that men were five times more likely to develop these enlarged bony growths.

So, what does this mean for our health? While concerns have been raised for years about potential links between mobile phone radiation and cancer, this new study suggests that the physical strain of phone use might be just as worrying. The researchers described the growth of the EOP as a degenerative process, suggesting that things could get worse for future generations if habits don’t change. Another condition linked to tech use is "text thumb," a form of arthritis that affects the thumb in a way similar to carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, the idea of bony "horns" growing from the back of our skulls has faced criticism. Some experts argue that the study's conclusions are premature and that longer EOPs have been observed for centuries, especially in men. Skeptics believe that Shahar and Sayers may be taking established facts and twisting them to fit their narrative. They argue that there is simply not enough solid evidence to claim that modern technology is responsible for such changes.

Nevertheless, whether or not this theory holds true, there’s no denying the significant impact that technology has on our bodies and daily lives. As we continue to evolve alongside our devices, we might see even more surprising adaptations in the future. Whether or not we’ll develop noticeable physical traits as a result, only time will tell. Until then, perhaps we should take a break from our screens and enjoy some time outdoors.