As summer holidays begin across the United Arab Emirates, medical professionals are raising concerns about the impact of prolonged screen time on children’s musculoskeletal health. With many children spending increased hours indoors using smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices, doctors warn that excessive device use may be contributing to posture-related problems, including neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and reduced flexibility.

A study published in PubMed Central examined screen habits, physical activity levels, and body mass index (BMI) among children aged four to 17 in the UAE. It found that nearly 38 percent of children spent more than seven hours per weekday on screens. The study also highlighted that among those with high screen exposure, nearly 69 percent reported no participation in physical activity, suggesting a correlation between extended screen use and sedentary behavior.

Paediatric specialists have noted a rise in early signs of posture-related issues in young patients. Dr. Brigitta Hanna, Specialist Pediatrics at Aster Clinic in Aswaaq Mall, said that prolonged use of mobile devices is affecting children’s posture and flexibility. She described common symptoms such as persistent dull aches in the neck and shoulders, frequent tension headaches, and stiffness. Dr. Hanna warned that ignoring these warning signs could lead to more serious complications, including muscle imbalances, nerve compression, and restricted breathing due to compressed ribs, which could cause general fatigue and lethargy.

Similarly, Dr. Mai Magdy Ali Ghazy, Specialist Pediatrics at Burjeel Medical Centre in Al Falah, emphasized that posture problems often develop gradually, making them harder for parents to detect. She advised parents to watch for signs such as a forward-tilted head posture, sometimes called "tech neck," rounded shoulders, frequent rubbing of the neck or shoulders after screen use, and headaches later in the day. According to Dr. Ghazy, intermittent discomfort that resolves with stretching or breaks is typically not worrisome, but persistent or recurring pain warrants professional evaluation. She added that symptoms such as pain that awakens a child at night, tingling or numbness in the arms, uneven shoulders, abnormal spinal curvature during bending, or avoidance of previously enjoyed activities should prompt medical attention.

Experts recommend that if a child experiences discomfort lasting more than one to two weeks despite reduced screen time and ergonomic adjustments, parents should seek medical advice rather than delaying evaluation. The warnings come as part of a broader concern about the long-term health impact of increased sedentary behaviors among children during school breaks, highlighting the need for balancing screen use with regular physical activity and proper posture awareness.