PREVALENCE OF LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS ASSOCIATED WITH PROLONGED USE OF DIGITAL DEVICES IN OFFICE WORKERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Lateral epicondylitis (LE), commonly referred to as tennis elbow, is traditionally observed in athletes performing repetitive upper limb activities. However, a growing number of cases are now being identified in office workers due to prolonged digital device usage. With increasing dependence on computers and smartphones in occupational settings, the risk of repetitive strain injuries like LE has intensified. Despite this trend, research exploring the prevalence of LE specifically among office-based digital device users remains limited.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of lateral epicondylitis associated with prolonged digital device use among office workers.

Methods: This analytical, observational cross-sectional study was conducted over six months. A total of 88 office workers aged 18–60 years were recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants who used digital devices for more than four hours daily were included. Clinical assessment of LE was performed using Cozen’s and Mills’ tests, while symptom severity and functional limitation were evaluated using the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with descriptive and inferential statistics applied.

Results: Among the 88 participants, 62.5% were male and 37.5% were female. Most were right-hand dominant. Cozen’s Test showed 19.3% positive in the right dominant hand and 3.4% in both hands. Mill’s Test identified 23.9% positive cases in the right dominant hand and 3.4% in both hands. A statistically significant association was found between prolonged daily device use and elbow pain (p = 0.036). Typing was the most frequently reported pain-triggering activity, followed by gripping and carrying. No significant associations were observed with break frequency, device type, or wrist posture.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a substantial prevalence of lateral epicondylitis in office workers using digital devices extensively. Emphasizing ergonomic interventions, proper posture, and routine breaks is essential to reduce the burden of this condition in modern workplaces.