New York - It was supposed to make life easier by freeing us from our desktop PCs.
But it turns out that, for all its portability and user-friendliness, the iPad might present a hidden health problem.
Researchers have identified a condition they are calling ‘iPad neck’, in which users develop a stiff neck and shoulders.
They claim that because most people hold the gadgets at a low angle or prop them up on their lap, they are forced to keep looking down, putting pressure on their neck joints.
Staying in this position for several hours can strain the neck and shoulders and cause pain.
To avoid any discomfort, iPad devotees are advised to prop the gadget up on a table with a case that tilts the screen up and towards them – rather like using a normal desktop computer.
The scientists, from Harvard University in the US, said the iPad and similar tablet devices are safe as long as users take regular breaks. Study author Dr Jack Dennerlein said: ‘The problem is getting stuck in these awkward postures for a long period of time. Keep moving when you use it and get a good case that feels comfortable.’
The researchers asked 15 volunteers to use an iPad and a Motorola tablet computer with and without a case and in a number of positions as they measured their head and neck movements.
The results showed that when the tablet was on a person’s lap or not propped up with a case, it caused the neck to bend more. Over time, this could cause pain and discomfort.
Dr Dennerlein, a senior lecturer on ergonomics and health, said: ‘Compared to typical desktop computing scenarios, the use of tablet computers is associated with high head and neck flexion [bending] postures, and there may be more of a concern for the development of neck and shoulder discomfort.
‘Only when the devices were set at their steepest case angle setting and at the greatest horizontal and vertical position did posture approach neutral.
‘This suggests that tablet users should place the tablet higher, on a table rather than a lap, to avoid low gaze angles, and use a case that provides steeper viewing angles. However, steeper angles may be detrimental for continuous input with the hands.’
An Apple spokesman was not available for comment. - Daily Mail