Do the Adolescents’ Physical Activity and Screen Time during the COVID-19 Quarantine correlate to their Upper Extremity Abnormalities and Anxiety?

This study examines the prevalence of upper extremity abnormalities during COVID-19 quarantine. It emphasizes the role of physical activity and screen time in these abnormalities in male adolescents. The relationship between these components and anxiety was also examined.

This descriptive-correlational study was performed on 150 13-15-year-old boys. Upper extremity abnormalities are measured using Image J software and Spinal Mouse. Physical activity, screen time, and anxiety are assessed by the use of standard questionnaires.

Means of age and BMI were 22.86 and 22.48, respectively. The results showed that 70 patients (47%) had forward head posture, 51 patients (34%) had kyphosis, and 11 patients (7%) had lordosis. In addition, the results showed that physical activity and screen time were significantly correlated to forward head and kyphosis (all T>1.96). Also, physical activity, screen time, and upper extremity abnormalities were significantly associated with anxiety (all T>1.96).

The results indicate that upper extremity abnormalities, including forward head and kyphosis, are relatively common in male adolescents during COVID-19 quarantine. Also, physical activity and screen time may impact these abnormalities.