Comparison of neck muscle strength, range of motion, and craniovertebral angle among Malaysian young adults using different electronic devices

Abstract

Aim: Prolonged use of electronic devices (EDs) and adopting poor posture during ED usage might lead to musculoskeletal disorders among young adults and adolescents. Hence, this study compares neck muscle strength, range of motion (ROM), and craniovertebral angle (CVA) among Malaysian young adults using different EDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a quantitative study design was applied to compare neck muscle strength, ROM, and CVA between laptop and tablet users of Malaysian young adults. The population of this study covers young adults residing in Selangor, Malaysia. Among them, 30 laptop users and 30 tablet users were selected using the selection criteria and criterion-based sampling method. The data analysis was carried out with SPSS 20.0 at a 5% level of significance. Results: There was no significant difference between the laptop and tablet users concerning neck muscle strength and CVA. However, a significant difference was observed only in the neck extension ROM between laptop and tablet users. The mean neck extension ROM is lower in tablet users than in their counterparts. The mean CVA of laptop and tablet users was less than 50 degrees, indicating severe FHP. Most laptop users (73.3%) were categorized into severe FHP than tablet users (53.3%). Conclusion: The mean neck extension ROM is lower in tablet users than in laptop users. Most laptop users had severe FHP than tablet users. Hence, Malaysian young adults should adhere to the appropriate duration of ED usage, ergonomics while using ED. and postural correction exercises to prevent and reduce musculoskeletal problems.