Association between 'text neck' and neck pain: a longitudinal study

Abstract

Introdution: The “text neck” is characterized by cervical flexion adopted while using the smartphone. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between text neck and neck pain over a 12-month follow-up and the influence of psychosocial factors. Methods: A longitudinal study. The sample consisted of 457 volunteers without NP aged between 18 and 65 years. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, psychosocial and smartphone use data were collected through a self-reported
questionnaire. TN was assessed objectively at baseline by measuring the cervical flexion angle using the cervical range of motion device (CROM) with participants standing and sitting while texting on their smartphones. One year after the initial assessment, participants were assessed regarding the point prevalence and frequency of NP. Results: Of the total, 396 (87%) participants completed the one-year follow-up. NP was reported by 40 (10%) participants at 12 months. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that TN was not associated with NP (standing OR = 1.0 [0.97–1.04]; sitting OR = 1.01 [0.98–1.04]) or frequency of NP (standing OR = 1.01 [0 .99–1.03]; sitting OR = 1.00 [0.99–1.02]) 12 months after baseline. However, low sleep quality (OR = 1.76 [1.17–2.63]) and insufficient level of physical activity (OR = 2.41 [1.03–5.65]) were associated with NP. Conclusion: Text neck was not associated with NP or frequency of NP after 12 months of follow-up of adults initially without NP, contrary to low sleep quality and
insufficient level of physical activity.