THE ROLE OF THE PHYSIOTHERAPIST IN THE TREATMENT OF MUSCLE TENSION CAUSED BY THE USE OF SCREENS

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the role of physical therapists in treating muscle tension caused by excessive screen time, a problem increasingly prevalent in contemporary society due to the prolonged use of smartphones, computers, and other electronic devices. This is an integrative, descriptive-exploratory literature review conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) between February and August 2025. Articles published in Portuguese, with free and full access, between 2018 and 2025 were included. After applying the eligibility criteria, eight studies comprised the final sample. The results showed that continuous use of mobile devices promotes poor posture, particularly forward head tilt, which causes overload and chronic tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, leading to discomfort, pain, and functional limitations. The analysis indicated that physical therapy plays a central role in the prevention and treatment of these changes, through ergonomic guidance, stretching, myofascial release, cryotherapy, and health education. It is concluded that the integration of preventive and therapeutic measures, combined with public awareness of postural habits, is essential to minimize the musculoskeletal impacts of excessive screen use and promote quality of life in an increasingly digital scenario.