Impact of Smartphone Addiction on Posture, Body Awareness, Physical Activity, and Balance in University Students

This descriptive cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the effects of smartphone addiction (SA) on posture, body awareness, balance, and physical activity among university students. With the rising popularity of smartphones in recent years, there has been increasing concern about their potential role in postural impairments and balance issues. The study population includes first- and second-year students from the Departments of Dental Services and Therapy-Rehabilitation at Fenerbahçe University School of Health Services. Smartphone addiction will be assessed using the short form of the Smartphone Addiction Scale; posture will be evaluated using the New York Posture Rating Chart; body awareness will be measured using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ); balance will be assessed with the Becure Balance System; and physical activity levels will be determined using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). The study hypothesizes that SA significantly affects these physical and sensory parameters. Based on a power analysis using G\*Power, a total sample size of 55 participants was determined. The findings are expected to provide valuable insights into the impact of digital device use on the physical health of young adults.