Prevalence of neck pain in smartphone users of the undergraduates

Abstract

Background: In our digital era, smartphone usage has escalated dramatically. Concurrent with the rising prevalence of smartphones, musculoskeletal issues related to extensive smartphone usage have also escalated. Neck flexion is the predominant position assumed by smartphone users while engaging with visual display terminals for prolonged durations; this posture may result in neck diseases. Objectives: The objective of the present study was to examine musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the neck in smartphone users to validate the high prevalence of neck discomfort. The study also seeks to ascertain the link and correlation between neck pain and smartphone users. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was performed with 215 students aged 18 to 25 years experiencing neck pain and impairment attributed to smartphone usage. Data were gathered via structured face-to-face interviews employing validated instruments: the NPRS score for measuring neck pain intensity, the WHODAS 2.0 (12-item questionnaire) score for evaluating neck-related impairment, and the NPDS score for assessing neck pain and disability linked with smartphone use. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square tests, and Spearman's rank correlation test were conducted utilizing SPSS 30. Results: Of the 215 BHPI undergraduates surveyed, 88.4% reported experiencing neck pain for more than 30 days, while 85% indicated moderate to severe level of pain during smartphone usage. Disability scores were primarily classified as mild to moderate. Notable correlations were identified between increased pain intensity and female gender (χ²=28.705, p=0.018) as well as elevated BMI (χ²=36.284, p=0.028). The quantity of pillows used in sleep ergonomics was associated with pain (χ²=15.725, p=0.001). The position of the smartphone below eye level and the type/outcome of treatment were substantially correlated with pain/disability. The level of smartphone related pain exhibited a moderate correlation with overall neck pain severity (r=0.351, p<0.001), whereas prolonged smartphone usage duration showed a minor correlation with increased disability (WHODAS r=0.188, p=0.006; NPDS r=0.225, p<0.001). Conclusions: This study establishes a considerable incidence of neck discomfort among student smartphone users, revealing strong correlations between neck pain intensity and variables such as gender, BMI, duration, and smartphone usage position. Keywords: Neck pain, Smartphone, Disability, Undergraduates.