Prevalence of Neck Pain and Its Association With Computer Usage in the Academic Staff of the Private Universities of Peshawar

Abstract

The prevalence of neck-associated pain has increased in the last decade due to the overuse of electronic devices like computers and laptops. The rate of neck pain and computer usage is very high in Pakistan, which is alarming. The aim of this study was to provide data about neck pain and its possible association with computer usage in the academic staff of private universities in Peshawar, Pakistan. A cross-sectional study, consisting of the academic staff of three private sector universities of Peshawar (Abasyn University, City University, and Sarhad University) who were using a laptop or desktop computer, was carried out. The study's sample size was 204, comprising both genders (male/female) who were using a computer or laptop for more than 2 hours daily and whiteboard users. Those individuals who had recent neck injuries or conditions related to cervical pain, like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, infections, and tumors, were excluded from the study. The neck disability index questionnaire measured the study outcome. This study's results demonstrate a strong association between neck pain and computer usage amongst academic staff of private sector universities in Peshawar.