Prevalence of Neck Shoulder Pain with Daily Use of Computers and Mobile Phones among Secondary School Students: Cross Section Study

Abstract

Background: Using computer continuously without a break and uncomfortable position have been suggested as risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to verify the prevalence of neck shoulder pain with daily use of computers and mobile phones among secondary school students. Methods: Cross section study designed to be achieved on secondary school students using computers and phones. The sample was made up of 102 secondary school students (12 to 16 years old) from a total number of 400 students who use computers and phones. This research targeted 102 students suffering from neck and shoulder pain. Evaluation done using questionnaire including age, sex, the prevalence of neck and shoulder pain, onset, severity, direction, nature, physical activity, and daily time usage of computer and mobile phone. Results: The results showed that, 94% of all participants were using computers and phones with 44.1% of the respondents were using it more than five years daily. About 60.7% had neck pain while, 39.2% sometimes suffered from neck pain. On the other hand, 58.8 % of students had shoulders pain, 39.2% sometimes had shoulders pain, while 2 % did not have shoulders pain. 64.7% had moderate pain and only 5.8 % with severe pain, while, 60.7% have increased pain during work and activity. Conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that exaggerated use of electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones cause great musculoskeletal problems, specifically in the head and neck region.