Does smartphone addiction affect cervical mobility, head posture, body awareness and pain pressure threshold?

Authors : Nagihan Acet, Sena Beğen, Murat Esmer

Pages : 57-62

Doi:10.32322/jhsm.1557372

View : 54 | Download : 104

Publication Date : 2025-01-12

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Aims: With the rapid development of technology, the increasing use of smartphones has become a subject of concern due to its multifaceted effects on the cervical spine and body awareness. The present study investigates effects of smartphone addiction on general cervical/isolated upper cervical mobility, body awareness, head posture, and cervical pain pressure threshold (PPT). Methods: This prospective and cross-sectional study was conducted on 108 participants, categorized as heavy users and light users based on daily smartphone use. General cervical / isolated upper cervical mobility (right and left rotation), body awareness, head posture, and PPT (midpoint of the upper trapezius muscle, and 2 cm lateral to the C2 spinous process) were assessed using the Cervical Range of Motion Device (CROM), the Body Awareness Questionnaire, craniovertebral angle, and an algometer, respectively. The comparison of cervical mobility, head posture, body awareness, and pain pressure threshold between the groups was performed using the Independent samples T test. Results: The results showed that smartphone addiction significantly affects isolated upper cervical mobility in the directions of right and left rotation (p<0.001), head posture (p<0.001 for both directions), and body awareness (p=0.035), but has no significant impact on general cervical mobility in terms of right and left rotation (p=0.847, p=0.848) or PPT assessed at two different points (p=0.165, p=0.213), respectively. Conclusion: This study highlights the clinical implications of smartphone overuse on upper cervical mobility, head posture, and body awareness, independent of pain pressure threshold and general cervical mobility. Clinicians should assess these factors in individuals with smartphone addiction, as early intervention may help prevent long-term dysfunction and sensorimotor disturbances.
Keywords : Akıllı telefon, boyun omurları, hareket aralığı, ağrı, duruş