ArticleCureus2024
Musculoskeletal Health Risks Associated With Smartphone Use: A Retrospective Study from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Article in Cureus, 2024. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
What it found
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
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Authors and funding
14 authors.
Funding
No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
backgroundSmartphone usage has become ubiquitous in Saudi Arabia with concerns growing over its impact on musculoskeletal health. Globally, various musculoskeletal symptoms have been linked to smartphone use such as neck pain, headaches, and shoulder discomfort, often exacerbated by poor posture and prolonged screen time.
methodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to investigate the impact of smartphone use on musculoskeletal health among adults aged 18 years and older. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling from various settings such as universities, workplaces, and public areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered both online and in paper format, covering demographic characteristics, smartphone usage behaviors, awareness of smartphone-related health effects, and the prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms.
resultsA total of 413 participants from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, were surveyed to assess musculoskeletal symptoms associated with smartphone use. Demographic analysis revealed a predominantly young, single, and highly educated population, primarily Saudi nationals. Smartphone usage patterns showed extensive daily use, with over 41% using their devices for more than five hours daily. The majority were aware of smartphone-related health effects. Musculoskeletal symptoms were prevalent, notably neck pain (83.8%), arm pain (63.8%), and headaches (71.2%). The incidence of symptoms related to text neck syndrome was substantial, although awareness and diagnosis were limited. The severity of symptoms varied, with mild to moderate levels reported most frequently.
conclusionThis study highlights a substantial prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among smartphone users in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for public health interventions to promote ergonomic practices and mitigate health risks associated with smartphone use. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to establish causal relationships and evaluate intervention strategies aimed at reducing these symptoms effectively.
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