Text neck syndrome: a rising concern among medical students in Northern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background & objectives: Text neck syndrome (TNS) is a modern health concern characterized by neck pain and discomfort resulting from prolonged forward head posture while using mobile devices. This condition arises from the repetitive strain on the cervical spine caused by looking down at screens, leading to potential long-term musculoskeletal issues. We aimed to study and document the prevalence and awareness of TNS among medical students in Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 medical students enrolled at Northern Border University, Arar, using a structured questionnaire. Data collection included demographic information, gadget use, symptoms, lifestyle choices, and awareness. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test, conducted using SPSS version 22.

Results: Among the participants, 68.6% reported experiencing neck pain in the past month, with 36.6% describing it as mild. For 68% of students, daily smartphone use exceeded two hours; 70% of them blamed gadget use for their discomfort. 81% of respondents reported poor or fair posture; only 26% engaged in neck or posture exercises. 54% of respondents were aware of TNS; only 18.6% received preventive education. Neck discomfort and characteristics such as smartphone usage, posture, stiffness, TNS awareness, and ergonomic changes (P < 0.05) exhibited statistically significant correlations.

Conclusion: This study highlights a significant prevalence of neck pain and its associated symptoms among medical students in Northern Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the importance of targeted health education campaigns and ergonomic interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of TNS on the health, academic performance, and overall well-being of medical students.

Abbreviations: TNS: Text neck syndrome,  

Keywords: Text Neck Syndrome; Medical Students; Smartphone; Posture; Musculoskeletal Pain

Citation: Shafiq P, Mehmood Y, Elmisbah HO, Bhatti MOA, Hussain MA, Jatt MA. Text neck syndrome: a rising concern among medical students in Northern Saudi Arabia. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2025;29(6):581-587;    DOI: 10.35975/apic.v29i6.2919

Received: May 09, 2024; Revised: October 26, 2024; Accepted: January 01, 2025