The Relationship between Sitting Habits during Study and Postural Spinal Deformity

The purpose of this study was to survey the effects of 4 prevalent sitting habits during study among university entrance exam applicants on postural spinal deformity.

After collecting data regarding sitting habits through interviews and questionnaires, the subjects were divided into 4 groups according to their habits. Spinal curvature and degree of scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis were measured by the New York test and a flexible ruler. The obtained data was analyzed by descriptive statics and Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Data analyses showed that studying while sitting on a chair was significantly related with kyphosis and forward head (P < 0.05). In addition, sitting on one side or leaning on a pillow had significant relationships with inclined neck and shoulder and scoliosis (P < 0.05). Sitting on the floor and reclining on the book were significantly related with kyphosis (P < 0.05). Lying on the stomach was also found to be significantly associated with lordosis (P < 0.05).

Our results showed that different sitting habits during study had significant relationships with spinal abnormalities. Therefore, university entrance exam applicants can develop spinal abnormalities due to long hours of studying.