The Surprising Impact of Powerful Cellphones on Human Skeletons

Recent media coverage has brought attention to a surprising topic - the potential of powerful cellphones and tablets to mutate the shape of our bones. This notion emerged from a scientific report conducted by biomechanics experts, David Shahar and Mark Sayers, from Australia's University of the Sunshine Coast. Biomechanics is a field that explores how mechanical laws apply to living organisms, encompassing human movements and the flight patterns of insects. Shahar and Sayers' study also incorporates osteobiography, a method that helps decipher someone's life through an analysis of their bones.

The study revealed that human skeletons adapt to an individual's lifestyle, providing unique insights into their activities and habits. For example, excavations on the Pacific island of Tinian in 1924 uncovered unusually large skeletons, which archeologists attributed to the islanders' work with heavy stones. Similarly, modern technology seems to be shaping the skeletons of young individuals in a surprising manner.

The researchers focused on an external occipital protuberance (EOP), a growth of bone found at the back of the skull, connected to the nuchal ligament that links neck muscles to the skull. The EOP acts as an anchor for the nuchal ligament. The study hypothesized that the constant forward bending of the neck while using phones and tablets increases pressure on the neck area. Consequently, the EOP gradually lengthens, leading to what has been termed "text neck."

Text neck was found to be more prevalent in young people, particularly males. By 2016, Shahar and Sayers reported that 67% of men, compared to 20% of women, had a larger EOP based on a test group of 218 individuals. Subsequently, the researchers expanded their study to include 1200 participants, with males being five times more likely to develop these enlarged text necks.

The potential health implications of these changes have raised concerns. While the potential link between cellphone radiation and cancer has been widely studied, this report represents one of the first to explicitly examine the effects of technology on our bodies. Shahar and Sayers described the elongation of the EOP as a degenerative process, suggesting that continued device usage could exacerbate the issue over time. Additionally, "text thumb" or thumb arthritis is another phenomenon that can arise from constant phone usage, similar to carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, the study's classification of EOPs as "horns" or "spikes" has been met with criticism from some experts. They argue that the evidence is inconclusive, pointing out that longer skull bones are not uncommon, especially in males, as seen in archaeological findings. As a result, the general consensus among the study's critics is that there is insufficient hard evidence to support the claim that cellphones are turning people into something akin to Hellboy with spikes on their necks.

Nevertheless, the impact of technology on our daily lives remains undeniable. The potential consequences of constant device usage on the skeletal development of future generations warrant attention and consideration. While the extent of the issue remains a subject of debate, it is essential to strike a balance between technology and physical well-being. As we continue to evolve in the digital age, only time will reveal the true impact of powerful cellphones on our bodies.

In conclusion, the topic of powerful cellphones potentially affecting our skeletons has garnered significant attention. While the study conducted by Shahar and Sayers raises intriguing possibilities, it is crucial to approach the findings with a critical eye and consider the wider context of skeletal development. As technology continues to evolve, the effects on human health and well-being will remain an area of interest for researchers and the public alike. Striking a balance between our dependence on devices and the preservation of our physical health will be essential to navigate the digital landscape of the future.