The Association between Screen Time and Low Back Pain among Male College Students

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is the most common musculoskeletal complaint. LBP affects all age groups, including college students. In the digital and communication era, computers and gadgets are ordinary. Excessive computer/gadget use can produce musculoskeletal work imbalance leading to LBP. Several risk factors are also linked to LBP, such as flexibility, strength muscle, body mass index (BMI), and standing posture. Thus, our study aims to investigate the association between LBP, screen time, and risk factors in male college students. This study was cross-sectional, involving 132 students. Height and weight were measured, and BMI was obtained. LBP was assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and the duration of computer use was obtained using a questionnaire. Back muscle flexibility was measured using a modified sit and reach test; back muscle strength was measured using Back-Leg Dynamometer. Posture was assessed using the New York Posture Rating Chart (NYPRC). All variables were categorized into two groups. Fifty participants (37.9%) had LBP. Forty-six participants (34.8%) use computer/gadget excessively. The screen time was associated with LBP (p=0.04, OR 2.19, 95%CI 1.05-4.56). No relationship was found between flexibility, back muscle strength, BMI, and posture. Screen time is associated with LBP in male colleges. Excessive screen time had a 2.19 times greater risk of having LBP. This study conclude that excessive screen time is associated with LBP in male college students.