A concerning rise in back pain among children and teenagers in the UAE has been linked to prolonged screen time, heavy school bags, and increasing rates of obesity. By the age of 17, studies reveal that 13% of girls and 26% of boys experience chronic low back pain. Specialists in the UAE are attributing this growing issue to sedentary lifestyles, poor posture while using digital devices, and unhealthy dietary habits.
Medical experts like Dr. Khaldoun Osman, a neurosurgeon, point out that prolonged time spent hunched over mobile devices and laptops is creating postural problems. This contributes to strain on the spine, with an increasing number of children being diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition that causes abnormal curvature of the spine. Additionally, many children are experiencing muscular spasms and pressure on the spine due to carrying heavy backpacks daily.
Obesity has further exacerbated this issue. Children suffering from weight problems face increased mechanical stress on their spines, making it harder to engage in physical activities. As a result, this sedentary lifestyle leads to weaker muscles and a higher likelihood of back problems.
To combat this, specialists recommend prevention strategies such as promoting regular movement breaks during school hours, limiting screen time, and encouraging children to adopt correct posture when sitting. Parents are also urged to ensure that children participate in physical activities and maintain a balanced diet to support their overall health and prevent chronic back pain.