The Impact of Smartphone Addiction on Sleep Quality and Central Sensitization in Individuals with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain of the Cervical Spine and Upper Limbs .

Background: Chronic musculoskeletal pain has a profound impact on an individual's quality of life and daily activities. Excessive smartphone use has been associated with the onset of musculoskeletal discomfort, poor sleep patterns, and increased central sensitization affecting the cervical spine and upper limbs. Aim: The present study aimed to examine the influence of smartphone addiction on sleep disturbances and central sensitization in individuals experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain in the cervical spine and upper limbs. Objective: The study's objective was to explore the correlation between smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and central sensitization in individuals suffering from chronic cervical and upper limb musculoskeletal pain. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with a sample of 300 participants. Data collection involved the use of validated questionnaires, including the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), the Gujarati version of the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI-G), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Additionally, the duration of smartphone usage and pain levels were assessed using a numerical pain rating scale. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant relationships among smartphone addiction, sleep disturbances, and central sensitization. Results: A significant positive Pearson correlation was observed between SAS-SV scores and CSI scores (r = 0.495, p = 0.001), SAS-SV and PSQI scores (r = 0.285, p = 0.001), SAS-SV and total hours of smartphone use (r = 0.716, p = 0.001), as well as SAS-SV and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (r = 0.417, p = 0.001). Conclusions: The study revealed a strong association between smartphone addiction, impaired sleep quality, and central sensitization in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain in the cervical spine and upper limbs. These findings suggest that prolonged smartphone usage and sleep disturbances may contribute to heightened pain sensitivity and overall health deterioration. Addressing smartphone addiction and promoting healthy sleep habits may play a crucial role in managing musculoskeletal pain and improving well-being.