Prevalence of Neurological Symptoms of the Upper Limb in Relation to Daily Screen Time and Desk Ergonomics: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/y32m0681Keywords:
Neuropathic Pain; S-LANSS; Forward Head Posture; Ergonomics; Screen Time; Upper Limb; Cross-Sectional StudyAbstract
Background: With the rapid expansion of digital screen use and the growing shift toward remote and computer-based work, work-related musculoskeletal disorders have become increasingly common. However, the neurological component of screen-related occupational exposure, particularly neuropathic pain in relation to prolonged screen time and workstation ergonomics, remains insufficiently explored. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of neuropathic pain among individuals with high daily screen exposure and to examine the relative contribution of cumulative screen time and desk ergonomic factors to neuropathic symptom burden. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 385 participants, including students, teaching staff, and administrative employees at the University of Lahore, Pakistan. Neuropathic pain was screened using the validated Self-Administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S-LANSS), with a cut-off score of ≥12 indicating likely neuropathic pain. Ergonomic and postural characteristics were assessed using a structured proforma. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 27, and associations were examined through chi-square tests, odds ratios, and binary logistic regression. Results: Likely neuropathic pain was identified in 42.3% of participants. Forward head posture showed the strongest association with neuropathic pain (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 3.09-7.74, p < .001), followed by deviated wrist posture (OR = 4.41), use of a non-adjustable workstation (OR = 4.15), and resting the elbows on a hard surface (OR = 1.79). Daily screen time was also significantly associated with neuropathic pain, with each additional hour of screen exposure increasing the odds by 24% (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.15-1.34, p < .001). Conclusion: Neuropathic pain was prevalent among individuals with prolonged screen exposure, with poor posture, inadequate workstation ergonomics, and increased daily screen time emerging as important associated factors. These findings highlight the need for targeted ergonomic education, workstation modification, and postural correction strategies to reduce neuropathic symptom burden in screen-based academic and occupational populations.
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