Association between Electronic Device Use and Neck Pain among Students at the College of Education, Shaqlawa

Abstract

The increased use of electronic devices among university students has raised concerns about its potential impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly neck pain. This study aimed to evaluate the association between electronic device usage and neck pain among students at Salahaddin University, College of Education-Shaqlawa. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to March 2025, involving 381 undergraduate students. Participants with prior neck conditions were excluded. Data were collected using a structured and modified questionnaire, which included demographic information and detailed usage patterns of mobile phones, computers, tablets, and televisions. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 19, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Among the participants, 44.4% reported experiencing neck pain in the past 12 months. Mobile phone use of ≥3 hours/day was significantly associated with neck pain (p = 0.028), as was the use of laptops compared to desktops (p = 0.0262), and computer use for ≥3 hours/day (p = 0.0218). A significant correlation was also observed between neck pain and tablet usage ≥3 times/week and eye distance <20 cm (p = 0.03). No significant association was found with posture or video game use. Gender differences were notable, with females reporting a significantly higher prevalence of neck pain than males (p = 0.033). Prolonged use of electronic devices—particularly mobile phones, laptops, and tablets—with improper ergonomics such as short eye distance and long duration of use, is significantly associated with neck pain among university students. Educational strategies focusing on healthy device use and posture awareness are recommended to prevent musculoskeletal discomfort.