Thoracic Spine Pain in Adolescents and Its Association With Electronic Devices and Other Factors

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of thoracic spine pain (TSP) in adolescents and to analyze its association with sociodemographic characteristics, use of electronic devices, habitual practice of physical activity and mental health problems. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 1628 students of public schools from the city of Bauru/SP. Data collection: 1. Characterization of the participants, use of electronic devices (TV, computer, tablet and phone), psychosocial factors and lifestyle; 2. Strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ); 3. Baecke Questionnaire; 4. Nordic questionnaire. Descriptive analyzes, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used. Results: The overall prevalence of TSP was 51.5% (CI 49.1 to 53.9). Women showed a prevalence of 59.6% (CI 56.2 to 62.9) and men of 43.1% (CI 39.7 to 46.5), with significant difference. The variables associated with TSP were: female gender (PR= 1.96), use of computer for more than 3 hours per day (PR= 1.29), use of computer for more than 3 times per week (PR= 1.35), distance from eye to the computer screen (PR= 1.29), use of cell phone in semi-lying position (PR= 1.37), time of use of cell phone for more than 3 hours per day (PR= 1.44), use of tablet in sitting position (PR= 1.47) and presence of mental health problems (PR= 2.62) Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of TSP in adolescents and a marked association with female sex, the use of electronic devices, the presence of mental health problems. The level of physical activity was a protective factor.