The Relationship between Sitting Habits during Study and Postural Spinal Deformity

Background: The purpose of this study was to survey the effects of 4 prevalent sitting habits during study among university entrance exam applicants on postural spinal deformity. Methods: After collecting data regarding sitting habits through interviews and questionnaires, the subjects were divided into 4 groups according to their habits. Spinal curvature and degree of scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis were measured by the New York test and a flexible ruler. The obtained data was analyzed by descriptive statics and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Findings: Data analyses showed that studying while sitting on a chair was significantly related with kyphosis and forward head (P < 0.05). In addition, sitting on one side or leaning on a pillow had significant relationships with inclined neck and shoulder and scoliosis (P < 0.05). Sitting on the floor and reclining on the book were significantly related with kyphosis (P < 0.05). Lying on the stomach was also found to be significantly associated with lordosis (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that different sitting habits during study had significant relationships with spinal abnormalities. Therefore, university entrance exam applicants can develop spinal abnormalities due to long hours of studying. Keywords: Sitting habits, Study habits, University entrance exam applicants, Spinal abnormality, Students