Dimensions of discomfort: Exploring smartphone dimensions and its impact on upper extremity musculoskeletal health

Abstract

BackgroundSmartphones have become essential tools in modern daily life, with usage intensifying in the post-pandemic era. Prolonged and addictive smartphone use has been increasingly associated with Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the upper extremity. Beyond usage duration, device characteristics may also influence musculoskeletal strain.ObjectivesThis study examined the relationships between smartphone usage patterns, addiction levels, device dimensions, pain severity, and the 12-month prevalence of MSD in the upper extremityMaterials and MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 262 adults aged 19-44 years with at least 12 months of smartphone use. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating demographic variables, smartphone usage habits, device specifications, the SNMQ, the SAS-SV and the NPRS.ResultsThe 12-month prevalence of neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist/hand MSDs was 52.7%, 39.3%, 34%, and 51.1%, respectively. Smartphone addiction was present in 60.3% of participants and was significantly associated with shoulder, elbow, and wrist/hand MSDs. Gender showed a small but significant association with shoulder symptoms. Correlation analyses revealed small positive associations between smartphone width and neck pain, and between phone length/width and right wrist and right thumb pain. Logistic regression models identified that phone width predicted neck MSD, daily usage duration and overall body position contributed to shoulder MSD, age predicted elbow MSD, and both smartphone addiction and age predicted wrist/hand MSD.ConclusionSmartphone addiction, specific device dimensions, and behavioral factors contribute to MSD. These findings underscore the need for ergonomic device design and informed usage practices to reduce musculoskeletal strain among young adults.