فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

Background: Increased digital device use and reduced physical activity among students during the COVID-19 pandemic have been associated with a rise in postural problems. This study investigated the relationship between body types—ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph—and the duration of digital device use in relation to changes in spinal angle in female middle school students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive-correlational study was conducted. The study population consisted of female students aged 13 to 15 from first secondary-level schools in Chenaran City during the academic year from October 7, 2021, to December 1, 2021. From a total of 10 first-grade girls’ high schools (approximately 1,000 students), four schools were randomly selected. Of these, 150 students were randomly selected and assessed using inclusion and exclusion criteria. Research tools included an informed consent form, anthropometric measurement instruments, the Smartphone Addiction Scale–Short Version (SAS-SV), a goniometer, a flexible ruler (IDIO brand), and a craniovertebral angle measurement tool. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient in SPSS version 22. Results: No significant relationship was found between body type and kyphosis angle (p = 0.651, r = 0.038), lordosis angle (p = 0.083, r = 0.147), or forward head angle (p = 0.785, r = 0.023). However, a significant correlation was observed between the duration of digital device use and both kyphosis angle and forward head angle, but not with the lordosis angle. Conclusion: Prolonged digital device use significantly influences spinal alignment, particularly increasing kyphosis and forward head angles. Although body type did not show a significant effect, factors such as physical activity and age should be considered when addressing posture-related issues. This study highlights the importance of educating students on proper posture and limiting screen time to prevent potential spinal health problems.