Smartphone AddictionsNCT07487922
Examining the Effects of Fatigue According to Nomophobia Level
An observational study of Smartphone Addictions, run by Inonu University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
The aim of this study is to examine, using a comparative and experimental approach, the effects of nomophobia (fear of being without a smartphone) levels on acute neuromuscular and cognitive fatigue susceptibility induced by a standard physical exertion in young adults. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 25 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Smartphone Addictions
- What is being tested?
- Fatigue Induction Procedure
- How many people
- 90 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 1 Mar 2026to 11 Mar 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 25 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Study population: SEDENTARY HEALTHY YOUNG ADULTS
Who may be able to join
- Being between 18-25 years of age.
- Agreeing to participate in the study voluntarily and signing the Informed Consent Form.
- Being literate in Turkish.
- Being able to complete the Nomophobia and PAS scales.
Who cannot join
- Having undergone musculoskeletal surgery within the last 6 months.
- Having any chronic neurological or orthopedic condition that would prevent participation in the experimental protocol (e.g., herniated disc, fibromyalgia, cervical disc herniation, etc.).
- Taking medications that may affect muscle tone or pain perception continuously (e.g., antidepressants, antispasmodics, muscle relaxants).
- Having a diagnosed serious psychiatric disorder (clinical depression, bipolar disorder, etc.).
- Having a cardiovascular or respiratory disease that would prevent maximum physical exertion during the protocol.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
The aim of this study is to examine, using a comparative and experimental approach, the effects of nomophobia (fear of being without a smartphone) levels on acute neuromuscular and cognitive fatigue susceptibility induced by a standard physical exertion in young adults.
Read the detailed description
This project aims to fill a significant gap in the literature by examining the effects of Nomophobia (No Mobile Phone Phobia), one of the rapidly increasing behavioral problems of the digital age, on cognitive performance and the neuromuscular system through objective physiological measurements.
Nomophobia is increasing, especially among young adults, with the widespread use of smartphones; it is closely associated with high anxiety, distractibility, and stress levels . Studies in the literature have reported significant correlations (r ≈ 0.45) between Nomophobia and stress. However, the vast majority of these studies are based on subjective scales and do not provide objective data that directly examine neuromuscular and physiological effects. Therefore, the somatic reflections of psychological stress related to Nomophobia on muscle mechanics and cognitive resilience have not been sufficiently explained.
Smartphone users, particularly those in their adolescence and twenties, are at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged and repetitive static positions. This leads to fatigue and pain in the neck (Sternocleidomastoid - SCM, Upper Trapezius), upper extremity (Flexor Carpi Radialis - FCR), and trunk (Lumbar Erector Spinae - LES, Rectus Abdominis) muscles
This project will objectively evaluate the effects of nomophobia-induced psychological stress on two key physiological domains to demonstrate its amplifying effect on this pre-existing physiological sensitivity:
Cognitive Performance: Examining the prolongation of Reaction Time (RT) in attention-demanding tasks after acute physical exertion in individuals with high levels of nomophobia. Cognitive performance will be assessed using the Nelson Hand Reaction Time Test (Simple Reaction Time - SRT), which measures the speed of a participant's hand motor response to a visual stimulus in milliseconds (ms).
Neuromuscular Response: Assessment of stiffness (ΔStiffness) and mechanical recovery rate (ΔDecrement) in postural (SCM, Upper Trapezius, LES) and functional (FCR, Rectus Abdominis) muscles as measured by MyotonPRO.
Physiological Cost: Determination of resistance sensitivity to fatigue through comparison of Core Endurance Time (seconds) achieved in maximal plank exercise .
In this respect, the project aims to demonstrate with scientific evidence that Nomophobia is not only a psychological condition but also a systemic stress factor that increases cognitive and neuromuscular sensitivity, by integrating the disciplines of behavioral psychology, physiology, and biomechanics. Research Question: Are young adults with high levels of Nomophobia more susceptible to cognitive and neuromuscular fatigue after acute physical exertion compared to those with low levels?
Key Hypotheses:
Individuals with high levels of Nomophobia will have a significantly higher percentage increase in Reaction Time (RT) after acute exertion.
Increased stiffness (ΔStiffness) and loss of elasticity (ΔDecrement) in postural and functional muscles will be more pronounced after the maximal plank test.
Individuals with high levels of Nomophobia will have a significantly shorter endurance time (seconds) in the Maximal Plank Position Endurance Test.
Expected Outcome: These findings will provide unique and objective evidence regarding the effects of technological addiction on neuromuscular health, demonstrating that individuals with high levels of nomophobia are more susceptible to both cognitive and physiological burnout.
- Conditions
- Smartphone Addictions
- Being tested
- Fatigue Induction Procedure
- Keywords
- Smartphone Addictions, musculoskeletal system
- Medical subject headings
- Internet Addiction Disorder
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Fatigue Induction ProcedureOther
- Maximal Plank Position Endurance Test: Physical fatigue will be induced using the standardized Plank Position Endurance Test (Axler \& McGill, 1997), which tests maximal endurance in the abdominal and trunk stabilizer muscles. • Position: The participant stands on their forearms and toes, keeping their body in a straight line from head to toe. Elbows are placed just below the shoulder joint. Abdominal and hip muscles are actively contracted. • Procedure: The participant is asked to maintain the position in correct form for as long as possible, upon the researcher's "Start" command. The timer is started at the beginning of the position. • Termination Criteria: The test is terminated when any of the following conditions occur, and this time (in seconds) is recorded:
- The lower back begins to sag, disrupting the straightness of the back (excessive increase in lordosis).
- The hips rise more than 90 degrees upwards. The part
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Examining the Effects of Fatigue According to Nomophobia Level | 1 Receives: Other: Fatigue Induction Procedure |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device
- Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. •
- Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
Measured: PRE (Before Loading)
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device
- Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. •
- Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
Measured: POST-0 (Immediately After Loading)
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device
- Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. •
- Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
Measured: POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading)
Secondary outcomes (6)
Scale: Nomophobia Scale (NMP-Q)
The Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) is a 20-item self-report scale designed to assess the severity of fear (nomophobia) experienced when individuals are without their mobile phones. Using a 7-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree to 7=strongly agree), it measures four dimensions: not being able to communicate, losing connectedness, not being able to access information, and giving up convenience
Measured: PRE (Before Loading)
Determining Physical Activity Level
The International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF) is a 7-item, self-reported survey measuring physical activity-vigorous, moderate, walking, and sitting-over the last 7 days. Designed for adults (15-69), it covers leisure, work, transport, and household activity. Scores are calculated in MET-minutes/week or categorized into low, moderate, or high activity levels.
Measured: PRE (Before Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale is a subjective tool used to assess an individual's perceived level of effort during physical activity. The scale reflects the interaction between physiological signals (such as heart rate, respiration, and muscle fatigue) and the individual's perception of exertion. . A modified version (0-10 scale) is also widely used in clinical and exercise settings.
Measured: PRE (Before Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale is a subjective tool used to assess an individual's perceived level of effort during physical activity. The scale reflects the interaction between physiological signals (such as heart rate, respiration, and muscle fatigue) and the individual's perception of exertion. . A modified version (0-10 scale) is also widely used in clinical and exercise settings.
Measured: POST-0 (Immediately After Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale is a subjective tool used to assess an individual's perceived level of effort during physical activity. The scale reflects the interaction between physiological signals (such as heart rate, respiration, and muscle fatigue) and the individual's perception of exertion. . A modified version (0-10 scale) is also widely used in clinical and exercise settings.
Measured: POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading)
Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS)
The risk of smartphone addiction was assessed using the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS). The scale was developed by Kwon et al. 2013 and adapted into Turkish by Demirci et al. 2014 (22,23). The scale consists of 33 items on a 6-point Likert scale. Scoring ranges from 1 (definitely no) to 6 (definitely yes). The total score obtainable from the scale ranges from 33-198, and higher scores indicate a higher risk of smartphone addiction.
Measured: PRE (Before Loading)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted23 Mar 2026
- Study start1 Mar 2026
- Primary completion10 Mar 2026
- Study completion11 Mar 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Smartphone AddictionsStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Inonu UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 90 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Inonu University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Naciye Dilruba Tektas Gulbil, Inonu University
- Investigators
- yasemin şahbaz, phd, Principal investigator, Istanbul Beykent University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07487922
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- E-45778635-050.99-213499
- Status last verified
- Mar 2026
- First submitted
- 26 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 23 Mar 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 23 Mar 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Examining the Effects of Fatigue According to Nomophobia Level
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07487922
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- E-45778635-050.99-213499
- Conditions
- Smartphone Addictions
- Keywords
- Smartphone Addictions, musculoskeletal system
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 90 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Inonu UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 10 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 11 Mar 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 23 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The aim of this study is to examine, using a comparative and experimental approach, the effects of nomophobia (fear of being without a smartphone) levels on acute neuromuscular and cognitive fatigue susceptibility induced by a standard physical exertion in young adults.
Detailed description
This project aims to fill a significant gap in the literature by examining the effects of Nomophobia (No Mobile Phone Phobia), one of the rapidly increasing behavioral problems of the digital age, on cognitive performance and the neuromuscular system through objective physiological measurements.
Nomophobia is increasing, especially among young adults, with the widespread use of smartphones; it is closely associated with high anxiety, distractibility, and stress levels . Studies in the literature have reported significant correlations (r ≈ 0.45) between Nomophobia and stress. However, the vast majority of these studies are based on subjective scales and do not provide objective data that directly examine neuromuscular and physiological effects. Therefore, the somatic reflections of psychological stress related to Nomophobia on muscle mechanics and cognitive resilience have not been sufficiently explained.
Smartphone users, particularly those in their adolescence and twenties, are at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged and repetitive static positions. This leads to fatigue and pain in the neck (Sternocleidomastoid - SCM, Upper Trapezius), upper extremity (Flexor Carpi Radialis - FCR), and trunk (Lumbar Erector Spinae - LES, Rectus Abdominis) muscles
This project will objectively evaluate the effects of nomophobia-induced psychological stress on two key physiological domains to demonstrate its amplifying effect on this pre-existing physiological sensitivity:
Cognitive Performance: Examining the prolongation of Reaction Time (RT) in attention-demanding tasks after acute physical exertion in individuals with high levels of nomophobia. Cognitive performance will be assessed using the Nelson Hand Reaction Time Test (Simple Reaction Time - SRT), which measures the speed of a participant's hand motor response to a visual stimulus in milliseconds (ms).
Neuromuscular Response: Assessment of stiffness (ΔStiffness) and mechanical recovery rate (ΔDecrement) in postural (SCM, Upper Trapezius, LES) and functional (FCR, Rectus Abdominis) muscles as measured by MyotonPRO.
Physiological Cost: Determination of resistance sensitivity to fatigue through comparison of Core Endurance Time (seconds) achieved in maximal plank exercise .
In this respect, the project aims to demonstrate with scientific evidence that Nomophobia is not only a psychological condition but also a systemic stress factor that increases cognitive and neuromuscular sensitivity, by integrating the disciplines of behavioral psychology, physiology, and biomechanics. Research Question: Are young adults with high levels of Nomophobia more susceptible to cognitive and neuromuscular fatigue after acute physical exertion compared to those with low levels?
Key Hypotheses:
Individuals with high levels of Nomophobia will have a significantly higher percentage increase in Reaction Time (RT) after acute exertion.
Increased stiffness (ΔStiffness) and loss of elasticity (ΔDecrement) in postural and functional muscles will be more pronounced after the maximal plank test.
Individuals with high levels of Nomophobia will have a significantly shorter endurance time (seconds) in the Maximal Plank Position Endurance Test.
Expected Outcome: These findings will provide unique and objective evidence regarding the effects of technological addiction on neuromuscular health, demonstrating that individuals with high levels of nomophobia are more susceptible to both cognitive and physiological burnout.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 1
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Examining the Effects of Fatigue According to Nomophobia Level | – | Other: Fatigue Induction Procedure1 |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 25 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
- Study population
- SEDENTARY HEALTHY YOUNG ADULTS
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Being between 18-25 years of age.
- Agreeing to participate in the study voluntarily and signing the Informed Consent Form.
- Being literate in Turkish.
- Being able to complete the Nomophobia and PAS scales.
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Having undergone musculoskeletal surgery within the last 6 months.
- Having any chronic neurological or orthopedic condition that would prevent participation in the experimental protocol (e.g., herniated disc, fibromyalgia, cervical disc herniation, etc.).
- Taking medications that may affect muscle tone or pain perception continuously (e.g., antidepressants, antispasmodics, muscle relaxants).
- Having a diagnosed serious psychiatric disorder (clinical depression, bipolar disorder, etc.).
- Having a cardiovascular or respiratory disease that would prevent maximum physical exertion during the protocol.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Fatigue Induction Procedure• Maximal Plank Position Endurance Test: Physical fatigue will be induced using the standardized Plank Position Endurance Test (Axler \& McGill, 1997), which tests maximal endurance in the abdominal and trunk stabilizer muscles. • Position: The participant stands on their forearms and toes, keeping their body in a straight line from head to toe. Elbows are placed just below the shoulder joint. Abdominal and hip muscles are actively contracted. • Procedure: The participant is asked to maintain the position in correct form for as long as possible, upon the researcher's "Start" command. The timer is started at the beginning of the position. • Termination Criteria: The test is terminated when any of the following conditions occur, and this time (in seconds) is recorded: * The lower back begins to sag, disrupting the straightness of the back (excessive increase in lordosis). * The hips rise more than 90 degrees upwards. The part | Other | Examining the Effects of Fatigue According to Nomophobia Level |
Primary outcome
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Time frame: PRE (Before Loading)
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device * Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. • * Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Time frame: POST-0 (Immediately After Loading)
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device * Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. • * Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties
Time frame: POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading)
Measurements will be performed face-to-face. • Device: MyotonPRO Device * Measurement Method: Myotonometry non-invasively measures the mechanical oscillation response of a muscle following a short and mild mechanical impulse applied to the muscle. • * Application Details: Measurements are repeated on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), superior trapezius, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) muscles at PRE (Before Loading), POST-0 (Immediately After Loading), and POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading) time points (Lettner et al., 2024).
6 secondary outcomes
Scale: Nomophobia Scale (NMP-Q)
Time frame: PRE (Before Loading)
Determining Physical Activity Level
Time frame: PRE (Before Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Time frame: PRE (Before Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Time frame: POST-0 (Immediately After Loading)
Scale: Borg Perceived Effort Scale (RPE)
Time frame: POST-3 (3 Minutes After Loading)
Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS)
Time frame: PRE (Before Loading)
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 23 Mar 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
yasemin şahbaz, phd principal investigator
Istanbul Beykent University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Smartphone Addictions, run by Inonu University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 23 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Assessment of Neuromuscular Mechanical Properties (time frame: PRE (Before Loading)). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 23 Mar 2026.