Effects of Smartphone Multitasking on Dynamic Balance

Background: Balance plays an important role while performing functional activities such as walking and everyday tasks. However, distractions may affect the balance. Earlier studies have found that using smartphone functions during functional activity affects the dynamic balance. However, very few Studies have been done to find out the effects of smartphone multitasking on dynamic balance while performing the Y-Balance test. Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of smartphone multitasking on dynamic balance while performing the Y-Balance test. Methods: Two hundred healthy young adults were randomly included in the study based on the inclusion and exclusioncriteria. Dynamic balance was assessed by using the Y-balance test. Limb length was priorly checked. During Y- the balance test different smartphone tasks were carried out which were 1) without a smartphone 2) while listening to music & web surfing 3) chatting 4) playing video games. Results: The result of the study showed that the without smartphone scores on the Y-Balance test are stronglypositive compared with the chatting group. The hearing music group's score onthe Y-Balance test is fair positive compared with without the smartphone group. Whereas, the videogame group’s score on the Y-Balance test is weak positively compared with the smartphone group. Conclusion: There was a significant effect of smartphone multitasking on dynamic balance while performing the Y-Balance test.