Assessment of Neck Pain–Related Disability and Associated Factors Among Undergraduate Medical Students at Rawalpindi Medical University

Hifza Hameed; Sabuha Arooj; Bisma Shuaib; Aima Sajjad; Tooba Maqsood; Syeda Fatima Mansur; Malik Huraira Bin Khalid; Rimsha Ejaz; Rubab Zahra; Afifa Kalsoom Zahra

doi:10.5455/JPHCM.20260515013015

Abstract
ABSTRACT:
Aims: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cervical disability and its association with demographic factors, lifestyle factors, and stress among MBBS students at Rawalpindi Medical University. Identifying modifiable risk factors in a high-pressure academic environment may help guide ergonomic and wellness interventions to protect the long-term health of future physicians.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 undergraduate MBBS students from first to final year over six months. Participants were selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using an online self-administered questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Height and weight used for BMI calculation were self-reported by participants. The questionnaire included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Cervical disability was defined as an NDI score ≥15. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28, and associations were assessed using the Chi-square test. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board, and confidentiality was ensured throughout the study.
Results: Clinically significant cervical disability was present in 17% of students. The mean NDI score was 9.21 ± 6.95, while the mean PSS-10 score was 18.99 ± 5.56. BMI, physical activity, and perceived stress showed significant associations with cervical disability (p < 0.05). Gender, year of study, screen time, and study duration showed no significant association.
Conclusion: Cervical disability among medical students was more strongly associated with lifestyle factors and psychosocial stress than with academic workload or study hours. Targeted exercise, weight management, and stress reduction strategies may help reduce disability risk.

Key words: Neck pain (D019547) Medical Students (D013337) Education, Medical (D004501)