Effect of smartphone addiction on hand muscle strength and function among college going students: A comprehensivereview

Abstract

Smartphones have become an indispensable component of modern life, particularly among college-going students who utilize these devices for academic learning, communication, entertainment, and social networking. Although smartphones have revolutionized access to information and improved connectivity, excessive and uncontrolled use has resulted in a growing public health concern known as smartphone addiction. Prolonged smartphone use often requires repetitive thumb movements, sustained gripping, awkward wrist postures, and continuous activation of intrinsic and extrinsic hand muscles, which may contribute to muscle fatigue, reduced grip strength, impaired dexterity, and various musculoskeletal disorders. College students are particularly vulnerable because of prolonged screen time associated with educational activities, online classes, gaming, and social media engagement. This review aims to summarize current evidence regarding the effect of smartphone addiction on hand muscle strength and functional performance among college-going students. The article discusses the epidemiology of smartphone addiction, underlying biomechanical and physiological mechanisms, assessment methods, clinical manifestations, and physiotherapy interventions. Current literature indicates that prolonged smartphone use is associated with decreased grip strength, reduced pinch strength, impaired fine motor coordination, and increased prevalence of disorders such as De Quervain's tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and thumb pain. Preventive strategies including ergonomic education, activity modification, strengthening exercises, stretching, and early physiotherapy management are essential to minimize adverse musculoskeletal outcomes. This review also identifies current research gaps and proposes future directions for improving evidence-based management of smartphone-related hand dysfunction among young adults