Effect of text-neck syndrome on scapular index and respiratory functions in different age groups

Purpose: Text-Neck Syndrome is a rising 21st-century syndrome that affects millions of people of all ages all over the world. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Text-Neck Syndrome on Scapular Index and Respiratory Functions in Different Age Groups. Methods: Forty-four subjects aged between (10 and 29 years) who had Text-Neck Syndrome participated in this study. They were distributed into 2 groups according to their age. Group (A) adolescent age group (10-19 years) and group (B) young adult age group (20-29 years). visual analogue scale was used to measure neck pain intensity, Functions of the upper extremity were scored by the Quick questionnaire, Scapular index was measured to assess Rounded shoulder posture, photographing method was used to determine craniovertebral angle to assess forward head posture, Respiratory function was assessed using 6-Minute Walk Distance. Results: Subjects with Text-Neck Syndrome in adolescent age group (A) had significantly worse Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (p<0.05), As well as non-significantly worse measurements of Visual analogue scale, scapular index and craniovertebral angle than those at the young adult age group (B) (p>0.05). But, regarding 6-Minute Walk Distance, group (A) had significantly higher results than group (B). Conclusion: Text-Neck Syndrome co-morbidities such as: neck pain, disabilities of upper extremity, rounded shoulder, forward head posture and decreased respiratory functions are all more present at adolescent compared to young adult age groups excluding the affection of respiratory functions which is worse in older age.