ABSTRACT
Introduction Smartphones have integrated seamlessly into our daily lives in various aspects. When a smartphone is used frequently for communication or internet access, it becomes addictive, which increases the risk of musculoskeletal problems in the hand, wrist, and thumb. Aim This research aimed to examine if there is a connection between excessive smartphone use and discomfort in the thumb and wrist. Subject and methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire translated into Arabic was distributed among the targeted population using an online survey. The questionnaire includes three sections, including socio-demographic data (e.g., age, gender, nationality, etc.), assessment of smartphone addiction by using the smartphone addiction scale short-version (SAS-SV), and assessment of wrist/hand pain using the patient-rated wrist and hand evaluation (PRWHE). Results Of the 3057 recruited participants, 1938 (63.4%) were females, and 3025 (99%) were aged between 18 and 65 years old. Perceived pain in the wrist or hand due to excessive usage of a smartphone was reported by 1728 (56.5%) of respondents. The overall mean SAS-SV score was 24.4 (SD 7.47) out of 50 points. The prevalence of smartphone addiction among the general population was 874 (28.6%). Increased SAS-SV and PRWHE scores were associated with respondents living outside Eastern region and using phones for 10 hours or more daily. Conclusion The prevalence of smartphone addiction in this study was 874 (28.6%), directly associated with wrist and hand pains. Musculoskeletal complaints due to smartphone addiction were more prevalent among respondents living outside Eastern Region who spent more time using their phones. A longitudinal study is required to establish the link between smartphone addiction and musculoskeletal complaints among the general population.
ABSTRACT
Background Wounds, ranging from acute to chronic, demand timely intervention to prevent complications. Infections can impede healing, leading to sepsis. Chronic wounds impact society, causing limitations in mobility and social exclusion. Early identification of infections is crucial for effective treatment, reducing unnecessary antibiotic use, and improving patient outcomes. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted from June to October 2023 in Saudi Arabia using a self-administered online questionnaire to assess wound healing knowledge and attitudes. Convenient random sampling via social media was employed to collect data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results Our study predominantly featured female (67.1%), Saudi (94.8%), aged 18-25 years (42.0%), and married (51.1%) participants. Chronic illnesses were prevalent in 24.2%, with heart disease (5.7%) and hypertension (4.5%) being notable. Burn injuries (27.4%) and upper extremity wounds (40.9%) were common, prompting immediate medical care (54.1%). Internet sources (22.6%) and relatives/friends (18.4%) were key for wound care information. Participants displayed solid awareness of wound-related factors, with notable misconceptions regarding Zamzam water (44.4%) and coffee beans (39.3%). Participants prioritized stopping bleeding (41.1%) and using wound patches (42.1%) for home injuries. Age group, education, marital status, and occupation impacted knowledge about wound healing. Conclusions Our study highlights key demographics, prevalent chronic illnesses, common wound types, and crucial sources of wound care information. Participants' awareness, coupled with notable misconceptions, emphasizes the importance of tailored education. Factors such as age, education, marital status, and occupation impact knowledge about wound healing.
