Do the Adolescents’ Physical Activity and Screen Time during the COVID-19 Quarantine correlate to their Upper Extremity Abnormalities and Anxiety?

Background: This study examines the prevalence of upper extremity abnormalities during COVID-19 quarantine. It emphasizes the role of physical activity and screen time in these abnormalities in male adolescents. The relationship between these components and anxiety was also examined.Method: This descriptive-correlational study was performed on 150 13-15-year-old boys. Upper extremity abnormalities are measured using Image J software and Spinal Mouse. Physical activity, screen time, and anxiety are assessed by the use of standard questionnaires.Results: Means of age and BMI were 22.86 and 22.48, respectively. The results showed that 70 patients (47%) had forward head posture, 51 patients (34%) had kyphosis, and 11 patients (7%) had lordosis. In addition, the results showed that physical activity and screen time were significantly correlated to forward head and kyphosis (all T 1.96). Also, physical activity, screen time, and upper extremity abnormalities were significantly associated with anxiety (all T 1.96).Conclusion: The results indicate that upper extremity abnormalities, including forward head and kyphosis, are relatively common in male adolescents during COVID-19 quarantine. Also, physical activity and screen time may impact these abnormalities.