Texting on the move affects the way people walk and may expose them to danger, according to new research.

Writing texts while walking can alter posture and balance, say scientists who studied the effects of mobile phone use.

Participants in the study walked at a comfortable pace in a straight line over a distance of around 28 feet. Each was asked to walk without a phone, or to walk while reading or typing a text. At the same time, their body movements were analysed in three dimensions.

Texting, and to some extent reading, was shown to modify body positioning while walking. While texting, participants walked more slowly and were more likely to veer from a straight course. Although the arms and head moved with the chest to facilitate reading and texting, increased head movement could have a negative effect on balance, said the researchers, whose findings are reported in the online journal Public Library Of Science ONE.

Study leader Dr Siobhan Schabrun, from the University of Queensland, said: "Texting, and to a lesser extent reading, on your mobile phone affects your ability to walk and balance."