Ergonomic Risk Factors and Musculoskeletal Discomfort in College Students: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Prolonged digital device use among college students is increasingly associated with musculoskeletal discomfort, yet comprehensive studies examining ergonomic practices, multitasking behavior, and symptom prevalence remain limited in undergraduate populations.

Objective: This study examined the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort and associations with ergonomic practices and digital device multitasking in college students.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 280 college students (mean age 20.6 years, SD 1.8; 57.9% female) recruited from academic institutions. Participants completed questionnaires assessing ergonomic practices (Ergonomic Practice Score, EPS), multitasking behavior (Digital Device Multitasking Scale, DDMS), and musculoskeletal discomfort (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, NMQ). Pearson correlation analysis and independent-samples t-tests examined associations between variables.

Results: Approximately 85% of participants reported >6 hours daily screen exposure. Neck (68.6%), shoulders (60.0%), and lower back (51.4%) discomfort were most prevalent over 12 months. Significant negative correlations were observed between ergonomic practice and discomfort (r = −0.54, p < 0.001), with students maintaining good ergonomic practices reporting 50% lower discomfort scores compared to those with poor practices (mean difference = 2.7/10, Cohen's d = 1.56). Multitasking behavior demonstrated positive association with discomfort (r = 0.48, p < 0.001). Daily screen time >8 hours was associated with 1.6-fold greater discomfort than 4–6 hours exposure.

Conclusions: Ergonomic practices, multitasking load, and screen time duration are significantly associated with musculoskeletal discomfort in college students. Implementation of ergonomic education, device-use awareness, and structured break protocols during undergraduate years may prevent progression to chronic musculoskeletal disorders.