EFFECT OF PROLONGED SITTING ON SCOLIOSIS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF SARHAD INSTITUTE OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background and objective:  Prolonged sitting is a common behavior among university students and may be associated with changes in spinal alignment and posture. This study aimed to determine the association between average daily sitting time and scoliosis among undergraduate students of Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar.

Methodology: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 students aged 18–30 years using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data regarding demographic characteristics and sitting habits were collected through a self administered questionnaire, while spinal alignment was assessed using a plumb line, inclinometer, and New York Posture Rating chart.

Result:  The results showed that 31.7% of participants reported sitting for 5–7 hours per day, while 20.8% reported 7–9 hours and 13.0% reported more than 9 hours. Normal spinal alignment was observed in 64.9% of participants, mild asymmetry in 26.5%, and suspected scoliosis in 8.6%. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a weak positive and statistically significant association between average daily sitting time and scoliosis (r = 0.173, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: These findings indicate that greater daily sitting time was associated with a slightly higher likelihood of spinal asymmetry; however, the weak correlation suggests that sitting duration alone has a limited relationship x with spinal alignment. The study highlights the importance of postural awareness, ergonomic practices, regular movement breaks, and preventive physiotherapy strategies to promote spinal health among university students.