SMARTPHONE OVERUSE AS A RISK FACTOR FOR CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME AND HAND DYSFUNCTION AMONG YOUNG ADULTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY SMARTPHONE OVERUSE AND CTS

Background: In the modern digital era, smartphone integration into daily life is nearly universal, yet the ergonomic consequences remain under-investigated in younger populations. Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and general hand dysfunction in young adults (aged 18–30) specifically in relation to daily usage time and the presence of systemic comorbidities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a sample of young adults. Clinical assessment tools included the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), the Wrist Ratio Index, and goniometry to measure Range of Motion (ROM). Results: Smartphone usage showed a strong positive correlation with BCTQ symptom severity (r = 0.822, p < 0.001) and functional status (r = 0.831, p < 0.001). A moderate positive correlation was observed between smartphone use and Wrist Ratio Index (r = 0.429, p = 0.001 o). Significant negative correlations were found between smartphone usage and wrist ROM, including flexion (r = −0.860, p < 0.001), extension (r = −0.649, p < 0.001), ulnar deviation (r = −0.656, p < 0.001), and radial deviation (r = −0.656, p < 0.001). Increased smartphone use was also associated with reduced sensory discrimination. Conclusion: Excessive smartphone use is a primary modifiable risk factor for CTS. Targeted ergonomic interventions and behavioral modifications are necessary to prevent long-term musculoskeletal damage in young adults.