Authors :
John A. ; Karkera A. ; Mohandas L. ; Kamath, M.S.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 6 - June
Google Scholar :
https://bit.ly/3TmGbDi
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/2j9afztr
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8174117
Abstract :
In today’s world, information acquisition
and communication has become easier utilizing various
digital devices leading to huge rise in the usage of
smartphones and computers among the younger
population leading to postural abnormalities. However,
little is known about musculoskeletal pain syndrome in
Indian youth. The aim of this study was to find out the
frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms associated with
utilization of smartphones and other digital devices
among college students in Mangaluru, Karnataka.
Methods and Materials: This was an observational
analytical preliminary study conducted using a
validated questionnaire among 379 college students
aged between 18-25 years. Students from various
colleges were contacted and the questionnaire was
distributed.
Results: The usage of smartphones in college students in
Mangaluru is 99%. Computer users were 77% and only
13% of individuals were using tablets. The study result
shows that prolonged duration of smartphone usage is
associated with increased frequency of neck, upper and
lower back pain. Also, prolonged computer usage leads
to upper back and shoulder pain whereas continuous
tablet usage without changing position has been
associated with arm pain.
Conclusion: This study provides information about the
influence of different digital device usage and its impact
on the occurrence of musculoskeletal symptoms like
neck, shoulder, upper/ lower back and arm pain in
college students. Hence, it is a global concern to spread
awareness of proper ergonomics and good posture while
using various digital devices to prevent musculoskeletal
pain or discomfort in youth.
Keywords :
Musculoskeletal pain, digital device, smartphone, students.
In today’s world, information acquisition
and communication has become easier utilizing various
digital devices leading to huge rise in the usage of
smartphones and computers among the younger
population leading to postural abnormalities. However,
little is known about musculoskeletal pain syndrome in
Indian youth. The aim of this study was to find out the
frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms associated with
utilization of smartphones and other digital devices
among college students in Mangaluru, Karnataka.
Methods and Materials: This was an observational
analytical preliminary study conducted using a
validated questionnaire among 379 college students
aged between 18-25 years. Students from various
colleges were contacted and the questionnaire was
distributed.
Results: The usage of smartphones in college students in
Mangaluru is 99%. Computer users were 77% and only
13% of individuals were using tablets. The study result
shows that prolonged duration of smartphone usage is
associated with increased frequency of neck, upper and
lower back pain. Also, prolonged computer usage leads
to upper back and shoulder pain whereas continuous
tablet usage without changing position has been
associated with arm pain.
Conclusion: This study provides information about the
influence of different digital device usage and its impact
on the occurrence of musculoskeletal symptoms like
neck, shoulder, upper/ lower back and arm pain in
college students. Hence, it is a global concern to spread
awareness of proper ergonomics and good posture while
using various digital devices to prevent musculoskeletal
pain or discomfort in youth.
Keywords :
Musculoskeletal pain, digital device, smartphone, students.
