The effect of stretching exercises on the mobility of the spine in the sagittal plane in people using digital devices – preliminary observations

Abstract

Introduction. Digital devices and a sedentary lifestyle pose significant health risks in today’s society, further exacerbated by the regular adoption of incorrect posture. Prolonged adoption of an incorrect posture can result in pain and impaired spinal mobility. Aim of the study. The study aims to evaluate the impact of stretching exercises on improving cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine mobility in the sagittal plane. Furthermore, it sought to examine the potential correlation between the occurrence of pain and the duration of digital equipment usage. Study materials and methodology. The study was conducted on a sample group of 22 individuals aged 18 to 21 (20.11 ± 1.56) years. Linear measurements, including the Schober and Otto-Wurm tests, were used to examine spinal mobility in the sagittal plane. The subjects were given a 10-day programme comprising six stretching exercises to perform autonomously daily. After ten days, line measurements were retaken. Results. Significant statistical values were observed for spinal ranges of motion in the sagittal plane; no statistically significant value was obtained for the incidence of pain and the duration of use of digital devices. Conclusions. The subjects demonstrated improvement in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine mobility in the sagittal plane following the implementation of stretching exercises. Additionally, a decrease in spinal pain was observed.