Postural changes in adolescents with refractive errors

Abstract

Introduction: The use of screens is increasingly present in the lives of adolescents, potentially leading to an increase in refractive errors (RE) and consequently, possible postural alterations. Objectives: To identify postural alterations in adolescents with refractive errors; investigate the relationship between screen time, physical activity (PA), and lifestyle with RE and posture; and compare postural differences between genders and levels of PA. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional correlational study was conducted. Twelve adolescents aged 12 to 18 of both genders participated, undergoing postural evaluation using the SAPO protocol. Descriptive analysis was performed for sample characterization. The t’student test was employed to compare postural alterations between genders and PA levels, and the Spearman correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between screen time, PA, lifestyle, RE, and postural alterations. Results: Postural alterations were identified in different RE. Gender differences were observed only in the Q angle of the knee (females exhibited more pronounced valgus), and significant correlations were found between the horizontal alignment of the head and screen time for other devices, except the mobile phone. Conclusion: Postural alterations were identified in the head, elevation of the acromion, pelvic elevation and anteversion, trunk inclination, and knee misalignment in individuals with RE. Valgus of the knees was more prevalent in females, and a relationship was observed between the horizontal misalignment of the head and screen time.