The primary aim of the study is to assess postural risks associated with the use of tablets by undergraduate students when studying, specifically focusing on upper body segments such as the neck, shoulders, and wrists. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the body segments most at risk and provide a foundation for further research on ergonomic interventions to mitigate these risks.
This cross-sectional observational study involved 77 undergraduate students from the College of Rehabilitation Sciences. Data were collected using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool, which evaluates ergonomic risk factors related to upper body posture. Trained assessors conducted the evaluation in a naturalistic setting to avoid the Hawthorne effect. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Spearman rank correlation to analyze relationships between different body segments and their postural scores.
The average overall RULA score was 5.07, indicating moderate to high postural risk, with neck posture scoring the highest (2.8), followed by the wrist-arm score (4.3). The study found that tablet use particularly affects the neck and wrist, with the trunk and legs showing comparatively lower levels of strain. The correlation matrix showed strong intra-rater and inter-rater reliability (average Spearman rank correlation: 0.92), validating the consistency of the findings.
The study concludes that tablet use during studying imposes significant postural risks, especially in the neck and wrist regions, which could lead to musculoskeletal disorders over time. The results highlight the need for ergonomic interventions, such as posture training and workstation modifications, to mitigate these risks in educational environments. Future research should explore longitudinal studies or experimental interventions to assess the effectiveness of proposed ergonomic solutions.
Physiotherapists can play a crucial role in developing and implementing programs to improve posture and prevent musculoskeletal issues in students. Additionally, educational institutions can integrate ergonomics education and provide appropriate tools or equipment to support healthier study habits. In policy, these insights may influence guidelines on technology use in academic settings, emphasizing the importance of posture and ergonomics in the prevention of long-term health issues.
postural risk
Rapid Upper Limb Assessment RULA
