Digital devices usage and neck and shoulder pain among college students: a cross-sectional study in China

Neck and shoulder pain (NSP) is a common issue among college students, yet no studies have linked digital device usage to NSP prevalence in China. This cross-sectional survey aimed to explore this relationship among students in Shanghai. A total of 6,000 students were randomly selected, with 4,848 (80.8%) completing a self-reported questionnaire on NSP prevalence and severity. The results showed a 39.1% NSP prevalence, higher in females (45.0%) than males (32.4%). Logistic regression revealed significant correlations between NSP and factors such as gender, poor posture, and prolonged digital device use. Additionally, neck muscle activity increased with spinal inclination, as assessed by the AnyBody platform. The findings suggest promoting a healthy spinal curvature lifestyle to reduce NSP among college students..