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Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Addiction | Research

Association between smartphone addiction and myofascial trigger points

Authors: Özden Yaşarer, Emel Mete, Reyhan Kaygusuz Benli, Berivan Beril Kılıç, Halis Doğan, Zübeyir Sarı

Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background

The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between smartphone addiction and miyafascial trigger points in university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of university students was conducted for the purpose of this study. The participants were assessed based on age, gender, dominant side, the amount of time they spent on their smartphones, the purpose of their use, and their posture. The Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Form (SAS-SF) was used to determine addictes and non-addicts. The cut-off value of SAS-SF is 31 and above for male and 33 and above for female.

Results

There were 136 participants in the study. The posture score for addicts and non-addicts ones was not significantly different (p > 0,05), but the number of trigger points, maximal bending posture and trigger points in the right levator scapula and right cervical erector muscles were significantly higher in the smartphone addict participants (p < 0,05).

Conclusions

Smartphone addiction in university students is associated with postural changes and trigger points in the bilateral levator scapula and right cervical erector muscles. Public health programs should be developed to raise awareness about smartphone addiction, encourage screen breaks, and emphasize physical activity and exercise regularly.
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Metadata
Title
Association between smartphone addiction and myofascial trigger points
Authors
Özden Yaşarer
Emel Mete
Reyhan Kaygusuz Benli
Berivan Beril Kılıç
Halis Doğan
Zübeyir Sarı
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2474
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-024-07383-4

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