THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL DEVICE USAGE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF “TEXT NECK” SYNDROME IN STUDENTS OF PEDAGOGICAL SPECIALTIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/ped-uzhnu/2025-8-1Keywords:
syndrome, text neck, digital devices, posture, students, preventionAbstract
This article addresses the pressing issue of «text neck» syndrome prevalence among pedagogical students in Ukraine. The study aims to investigate the anatomical and physiological mechanisms underlying the development of «text neck» syndrome. Furthermore, it seeks to scientifically substantiate the effectiveness of implementing a complex of physical exercises as a means of primary prevention and correction for functional disorders associated with this syndrome in pedagogical students. To achieve this objective, the following tasks were set: to conduct a theoretical analysis of scientific literature; to identify and systematize the anatomical and physiological aspects of the syndrome's pathogenesis; to survey pedagogical students to determine the prevalence of symptoms and characteristics of digital device usage; and to develop a preliminary complex of physical exercises. The article analyzes scientific literature regarding the etio-pathogenesis, prevalence, and consequences of this syndrome. Results from a survey of 214 pedagogical students are presented, indicating a high intensity of digital device use (95% of respondents most frequently use smartphones, and 92% on weekdays and 86% on weekends spend 4–6 hours per day using them); predominantly in a sitting or standing position. A correlation was found between the duration of gadget use and the occurrence of cervical discomfort and pain in the neck and upper back regions. The necessity for developing and implementing a complex of physical exercises for the prevention and correction of disorders associated with «text neck» syndrome has been substantiated, considering the high level of digital device usage by pedagogical students for both educational and personal purposes. A set of physical exercises is proposed, aimed at relaxing hypertonic muscles, strengthening hypotonic muscles of the neck and shoulder girdle, restoring range of motion, and optimizing student posture.
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