Rising Online Gaming and Screen Addiction Linked to Memory Loss and Mental Health Concerns Among Youth: JG PHYSIOCON Conference

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], February 27: Growing online gaming habits and increasing screen dependency among youth are emerging as serious public health concerns, with new research linking excessive digital exposure to memory decline, anxiety, reduced attention span, and musculoskeletal disorders. These critical findings were highlighted at JG PHYSIOCON 2026, a landmark National Physiotherapy Conference successfully organised by JG University on 20th and 21st February 2026 at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium.

Bringing together over 2,300 physiotherapists, academicians, researchers, and students from across India, the two-day conference stood as one of the largest physiotherapy gatherings in the region under the theme “Restoring Movement & Rebuilding Lives.”

Research Highlights: Digital Overuse Under Scanner

The conference witnessed the presentation of 588 scientific research papers, addressing contemporary clinical challenges, technological impact on health, and advancements in physiotherapy practice.

One of the key studies titled “Mobile Smartphone Addiction and Mindfulness Among College Students” was presented by Final Year student Kashish Champavat. Conducted among 170 college students, the research revealed a strong negative correlation between smartphone addiction and mindfulness levels. The findings suggested that excessive screen exposure significantly reduces concentration, emotional stability, and academic efficiency.

Another impactful study, “Online Gaming and Its Association with Hand Pain Among Youth,” presented by Third Year student Seema Parvin Khan, examined 80 students and found that nearly 60 percent reported hand and finger pain due to prolonged gaming. Participants spent an average of 3.6 hours daily on mobile gaming, raising concerns about musculoskeletal strain and sedentary lifestyle risks.

A third notable paper, “Relationship Between Screen Time and Mental Health Among Students,” presented by Final Year student Hetvi Shah, revealed that 78 percent of surveyed students reported anxiety symptoms, while 62 percent experienced attention-related challenges. The study concluded that prolonged digital exposure adversely impacts cognitive functioning, memory retention, and overall productivity.

Academic Excellence and Nationwide Participation

Beyond digital health concerns, the conference featured 16 Keynote Lectures, 2 Panel Discussions, and 4 Case Discussions, covering specialties such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy, Neurological Rehabilitation, Oncology Rehabilitation, Orthopedic Conditions, Women’s Health, and Pediatric Physiotherapy.

The event also included 2 Pre & Post-Conference Hands-on Workshops and 3 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Programmes, strengthening practical skills and clinical competencies. Student engagement remained a major highlight with academic, cultural, and sports competitions fostering holistic development.

The valedictory ceremony was graced by Padmavati Dr. Sudhir V Shah, renowned neuro physician, as the Chief Guest, who applauded the academic depth and national participation while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice in modern healthcare.

Dr. Prakruti Motka, Incharge Secretary, GSAHC, attended as Guest of Honour and commended the organising team for delivering a conference of remarkable scale and academic substance.

Dr. M. P. Chandran, Chief Mentor of the Conference, stated “JG PHYSIOCON 2026 reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare education and professional excellence. The participation of over 2300 delegates is a powerful testament to the unity and forward-thinking vision of the physiotherapy fraternity in India.”

Dr. CA Achyut Dani, President of the Conference, remarked “The conference successfully blended academic rigor, clinical innovation, and student dynamism. It has created a strong platform for collaboration, research exchange, and professional growth that will benefit the healthcare ecosystem nationwide.”

Health experts collectively emphasized that while digital technology remains integral to modern life, unchecked screen addiction poses a growing threat to both physical and mental well-being among youth. The conference concluded with a strong call for increased awareness, preventive strategies, balanced digital habits, and interdisciplinary collaboration to safeguard the next generation.

With impactful discussions, strong scientific contributions, and nationwide participation, JG PHYSIOCON 2026 reaffirmed JG University’s leadership in advancing physiotherapy education, research, and evidence-based clinical practice in India.