'Screen slaves' putting health at risk

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy warns office workers using phones and computer devices after working hours are risking their health

Smartphone users are risking their health by over using the devices and becoming ‘screen slaves’ says the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

People are using these devices outside of the office, leading to back and neck pain from poor posture.

An online survey, conducted by the society, found 64 per cent continued to work outside of the office, spending an average of two hours and 18 minutes extra on their devices.

This comes after an average of six hours and 22 minutes staring at a screen whilst in the office.

Chairwoman of the society, Dr Helena Johnson says the findings are of huge concern.

‘While doing a bit of extra work at home may seem like a good short-term fix, if it becomes a regular part of your evening routine then it can lead to problems such as back and neck pain, as well as stress-related illness.’

Brendan Barber, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress says, ‘excessive work levels are not good for anyone.'

'Overworked employees are not only unlikely to be performing well at work, the stress an unmanageable workload causes is also likely to be making them ill.’

To tackle this unions have suggested people learn to switch off their devices outside of working hours.

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