Gaming DisorderNCT07802925
Spinal Posture According to the Severity of Gaming Disorder,
An observational study of Gaming Disorder, run by Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
Background: Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a behavioral addiction recognized in diagnostic classifications such as DSM-5 and ICD-11. While research historically focuses on psychological and social dimensions, prolonged screen exposure and static sitting postures during gaming may also lead to physical health… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 30 years, men onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Gaming Disorder
- How many people
- 47 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 30 Nov 2024to 16 Jul 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 30 years
- Men only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Study population: Students at Gaziantep Islamic University of Science and Technology
Who may be able to join
- Aged between 18 and 30,
- Scoring 36 points or more on the short form of the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale (IGDS9-SF),
- With a score on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) of less than 3,000 METs,
- who play digital games for at least 2 hours a day,
- Male participants were included in order to create a more homogeneous group by minimising physical characteristics that might vary by gender.
Who cannot join
- Those who had undergone any form of spinal surgery, • Individuals with orthopaedic and neurological problems.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University
Gaziantep, Şahinbey, 27010
About this study
Official title: An Investigation of Spinal Posture, Endurance and Fatigue According to the Severity of Gaming Disorder
Background:
Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a behavioral addiction recognized in diagnostic classifications such as DSM-5 and ICD-11. While research historically focuses on psychological and social dimensions, prolonged screen exposure and static sitting postures during gaming may also lead to physical health concerns, including postural alterations, reduced neuromuscular performance, and increased fatigue.
Objective:The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate and compare spinal posture, trunk and cervical muscle endurance, lumbopelvic stability, and perceived fatigue levels between young adult males with and without Internet Gaming Disorder. Methods \& Procedures:A total of 47 young adult male participants aged 18-30 were recruited and divided into two groups: an IGD group (n=24) and a control group (n=23) based on the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form (IGDS9-SF). Physical activity level and sitting duration were documented using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Participants underwent the following evaluations: Spinal Posture: Non-invasive computer-aided sagittal spinal curvature and mobility measurements using the Spinal Mouse device (Baseline/IDIAG). Trunk Endurance: McGill Trunk Endurance Tests (Flexor, Extensor, and Bilateral Lateral Plank tests). Cervical Endurance: Deep Cervical Flexor and Cervical Extensor Endurance Tests. Lumbopelvic Stability: Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) / Cuff test. Fatigue: Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Statistical Approach:Data are analyzed using SPSS (version 22.0). Normality distribution is examined visually (histograms) and analytically (Shapiro-Wilk test). Descriptive statistics are reported as mean ± standard deviation for continuous parameters. Group comparisons for parametric data are performed using the Independent Samples t-test, and non-parametric data are compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance is set at p < 0.05
Read the detailed description
Technological advances have significantly increased screen time among young adults, fostering high rates of sedentary behavior. Prolonged static sitting during video game play places abnormal mechanical stress on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Maintaining posture depends on spinal muscular endurance and sensorimotor coordination; however, static posture can lead to muscle fatigue, decreased endurance, altered spinal curvatures, and overall physical fatigue. Evidence regarding the specific musculoskeletal impacts of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) remains limited. Study Design \& Participant Selection:This descriptive, cross-sectional study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Gaziantep Islamic Science and Technology University. Male volunteers aged 18-30 were recruited to eliminate gender-related physical variance. IGD Group Eligibility: Score of 36 or higher on the IGDS9-SF, gaming for at least 2 hours/day, physical activity under 3000 MET-min/week on IPAQ-SF, and no history of spinal surgery, neurological, or orthopedic disorders. Control Group Eligibility: Score below 36 on the IGDS9-SF, aged 18-30, with no neurological, orthopedic, or spinal conditions. Evaluation Protocol:All evaluations were conducted in a single 45-minute face-to-face session per participant by a single physiotherapist: Demographics \& Behavior: Age, height, body weight, daily gaming duration, primary gaming hardware (PC, console, mobile), and game genres were documented. Physical Activity \& Sedentary Time: Evaluated via IPAQ-SF (MET-min/week calculation for walking, moderate, and vigorous activities, plus daily sitting time in seconds). Spinal Posture Analysis: Measured with the Spinal Mouse device along the spine from C7 to S3. Sagittal parameters (Thoracic Kyphosis, Lumbar Lordosis, Inclination, and Spinal Length) were evaluated in three static positions: Upright Standing, Maximum Flexion, and Maximum Extension, alongside spinal mobility ranges. Trunk Muscle Endurance: Measured in seconds using the McGill Endurance Test Battery (gövde fleksiyon, gövde ekstansiyon, and right/left lateral plank tests). Cervical Muscle Endurance: Measured in seconds using the Cervical Flexor Endurance Test (supine with chin tuck) and Cervical Extensor Endurance Test (prone with head cantilevered over the bed edge). Lumbopelvic Stability: Assessed using the Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) placed under the lumbar spine inflated to 40 mmHg, recording the duration (in seconds) that the participant maintains stability during an abdominal hollowing maneuver. Perceived Fatigue: Total score evaluated via the self-reported Fatigue Severity Scale. Statistical Methodology:All quantitative variables are processed with SPSS version 22.0. Normality testing is performed via the Shapiro-Wilk test and visual inspection of histograms. Continuous variables are summarized using mean ± standard deviation (X ± SD), minimum, and maximum values. Categorical variables (device type, game genre) are summarized as counts and percentages. Between-group comparisons are conducted using: Independent Samples t-test: For normally distributed continuous data. Mann-Whitney U Test: For non-normally distributed continuous data. Two-tailed significance is established at p < 0.05 for all statistical tests.
- Conditions
- Gaming Disorder
- Keywords
- gaming disorders, posture, fatique
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming Disorders group | focus group | |
| Control group | Not described |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Postural Analysis
In this study, spinal posture, mobility and structural-mechanical variables in the sagittal plane were assessed in the IOOB group and the control group using the Spinal Mouse device. The Spinal Mouse is a computer-assisted device that non-invasively assesses the range of motion of the spine in the sagittal plane.
Measured: Baseline
Posture Analysis
In this study, spinal posture, mobility and structural-mechanical variables in the sagittal plane were assessed in the gaming disorders group and the control group using the Spinal Mouse device. The Spinal Mouse is a computer-assisted device that non-invasively assesses the range of motion of the spine in the sagittal plane.
Measured: Baseline
Body Endurance Tests
The test comprises an endurance test of the trunk flexor and extensor muscles and a right-left lateral plank test. The trunk flexor endurance test was performed with the hips and knees flexed to 90° and the trunk supported at 60°. Once the participant was ready, the support was removed, and the time maintained in this position was recorded in seconds.The trunk extensor endurance test was performed with the participant prone, with the trunk unsupported from the level of the anterior superior iliac spine and the hands placed on a support. The participant crossed the arms over the chest and extended the trunk to maintain a horizontal position.The trunk lateral flexor endurance test was performed in a side-lying position, with the lower arm under the head and the upper arm parallel to the trunk or at waist level. Participants lifted their hips to maintain a straight body position, and the holding time was recorded in seconds. The test was performed on both sides, wit
Measured: Baseline
Cervical Endurance Tests
Cervical endurance tests are measurement methods widely used in clinical and research settings to assess the endurance of the neck muscles.The test was performed in a supine position with the knees flexed. Participants were instructed to perform a chin tuck and lift the head and neck approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the table. The time the position was maintained was recorded.
Measured: baseline
Lumbopelvic Stability Sleeve Test
The test was performed in a supine position with the feet elevated 20 cm above the table. A pressure cuff inflated to 40 mmHg was placed under the lumbar region. Participants performed an abdominal drawing-in maneuver to maintain lumbopelvic stability, and the duration for which the pressure was maintained was recorded.
Measured: baseline
Secondary outcomes (1)
Fatigue Severity Scale
Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale. The scale evaluates fatigue over the previous month and consists of nine items scored from 1 to 7. The total score is divided by 9, with a mean score ≥4 indicating fatigue.
Measured: baseline
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted3 Sep 2026
- Study start30 Nov 2024
- Primary completion30 Dec 2025
- Study completion16 Jul 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Gaming DisorderStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- 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
- Other
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 47 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Çağtay Maden, Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07802925
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 464.40.14
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 31 Aug 2026
- Last updated
- 9 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 9 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- An Investigation of Spinal Posture, Endurance and Fatigue According to the Severity of Gaming Disorder
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07802925
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 464.40.14
- Conditions
- Gaming Disorder
- Keywords
- gaming disorders, posture, fatique
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 47 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 30 Nov 2024 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 16 Jul 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 3 Sep 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.
Background:
Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a behavioral addiction recognized in diagnostic classifications such as DSM-5 and ICD-11. While research historically focuses on psychological and social dimensions, prolonged screen exposure and static sitting postures during gaming may also lead to physical health concerns, including postural alterations, reduced neuromuscular performance, and increased fatigue.
Objective:The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate and compare spinal posture, trunk and cervical muscle endurance, lumbopelvic stability, and perceived fatigue levels between young adult males with and without Internet Gaming Disorder. Methods \& Procedures:A total of 47 young adult male participants aged 18-30 were recruited and divided into two groups: an IGD group (n=24) and a control group (n=23) based on the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form (IGDS9-SF). Physical activity level and sitting duration were documented using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Participants underwent the following evaluations: Spinal Posture: Non-invasive computer-aided sagittal spinal curvature and mobility measurements using the Spinal Mouse device (Baseline/IDIAG). Trunk Endurance: McGill Trunk Endurance Tests (Flexor, Extensor, and Bilateral Lateral Plank tests). Cervical Endurance: Deep Cervical Flexor and Cervical Extensor Endurance Tests. Lumbopelvic Stability: Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) / Cuff test. Fatigue: Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Statistical Approach:Data are analyzed using SPSS (version 22.0). Normality distribution is examined visually (histograms) and analytically (Shapiro-Wilk test). Descriptive statistics are reported as mean ± standard deviation for continuous parameters. Group comparisons for parametric data are performed using the Independent Samples t-test, and non-parametric data are compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance is set at p < 0.05
Detailed description
Technological advances have significantly increased screen time among young adults, fostering high rates of sedentary behavior. Prolonged static sitting during video game play places abnormal mechanical stress on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Maintaining posture depends on spinal muscular endurance and sensorimotor coordination; however, static posture can lead to muscle fatigue, decreased endurance, altered spinal curvatures, and overall physical fatigue. Evidence regarding the specific musculoskeletal impacts of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) remains limited. Study Design \& Participant Selection:This descriptive, cross-sectional study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Gaziantep Islamic Science and Technology University. Male volunteers aged 18-30 were recruited to eliminate gender-related physical variance. IGD Group Eligibility: Score of 36 or higher on the IGDS9-SF, gaming for at least 2 hours/day, physical activity under 3000 MET-min/week on IPAQ-SF, and no history of spinal surgery, neurological, or orthopedic disorders. Control Group Eligibility: Score below 36 on the IGDS9-SF, aged 18-30, with no neurological, orthopedic, or spinal conditions. Evaluation Protocol:All evaluations were conducted in a single 45-minute face-to-face session per participant by a single physiotherapist: Demographics \& Behavior: Age, height, body weight, daily gaming duration, primary gaming hardware (PC, console, mobile), and game genres were documented. Physical Activity \& Sedentary Time: Evaluated via IPAQ-SF (MET-min/week calculation for walking, moderate, and vigorous activities, plus daily sitting time in seconds). Spinal Posture Analysis: Measured with the Spinal Mouse device along the spine from C7 to S3. Sagittal parameters (Thoracic Kyphosis, Lumbar Lordosis, Inclination, and Spinal Length) were evaluated in three static positions: Upright Standing, Maximum Flexion, and Maximum Extension, alongside spinal mobility ranges. Trunk Muscle Endurance: Measured in seconds using the McGill Endurance Test Battery (gövde fleksiyon, gövde ekstansiyon, and right/left lateral plank tests). Cervical Muscle Endurance: Measured in seconds using the Cervical Flexor Endurance Test (supine with chin tuck) and Cervical Extensor Endurance Test (prone with head cantilevered over the bed edge). Lumbopelvic Stability: Assessed using the Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) placed under the lumbar spine inflated to 40 mmHg, recording the duration (in seconds) that the participant maintains stability during an abdominal hollowing maneuver. Perceived Fatigue: Total score evaluated via the self-reported Fatigue Severity Scale. Statistical Methodology:All quantitative variables are processed with SPSS version 22.0. Normality testing is performed via the Shapiro-Wilk test and visual inspection of histograms. Continuous variables are summarized using mean ± standard deviation (X ± SD), minimum, and maximum values. Categorical variables (device type, game genre) are summarized as counts and percentages. Between-group comparisons are conducted using: Independent Samples t-test: For normally distributed continuous data. Mann-Whitney U Test: For non-normally distributed continuous data. Two-tailed significance is established at p < 0.05 for all statistical tests.
Study design
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming Disorders group | – | –focus group |
| Control group | – | – |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 30 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
- Study population
- Students at Gaziantep Islamic University of Science and Technology
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Aged between 18 and 30,
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- Those who had undergone any form of spinal surgery, • Individuals with orthopaedic and neurological problems.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Primary outcome
Postural Analysis
Time frame: Baseline
In this study, spinal posture, mobility and structural-mechanical variables in the sagittal plane were assessed in the IOOB group and the control group using the Spinal Mouse device. The Spinal Mouse is a computer-assisted device that non-invasively assesses the range of motion of the spine in the sagittal plane.
Posture Analysis
Time frame: Baseline
In this study, spinal posture, mobility and structural-mechanical variables in the sagittal plane were assessed in the gaming disorders group and the control group using the Spinal Mouse device. The Spinal Mouse is a computer-assisted device that non-invasively assesses the range of motion of the spine in the sagittal plane.
Body Endurance Tests
Time frame: Baseline
The test comprises an endurance test of the trunk flexor and extensor muscles and a right-left lateral plank test. The trunk flexor endurance test was performed with the hips and knees flexed to 90° and the trunk supported at 60°. Once the participant was ready, the support was removed, and the time maintained in this position was recorded in seconds.The trunk extensor endurance test was performed with the participant prone, with the trunk unsupported from the level of the anterior superior iliac spine and the hands placed on a support. The participant crossed the arms over the chest and extended the trunk to maintain a horizontal position.The trunk lateral flexor endurance test was performed in a side-lying position, with the lower arm under the head and the upper arm parallel to the trunk or at waist level. Participants lifted their hips to maintain a straight body position, and the holding time was recorded in seconds. The test was performed on both sides, wit
Cervical Endurance Tests
Time frame: baseline
Cervical endurance tests are measurement methods widely used in clinical and research settings to assess the endurance of the neck muscles.The test was performed in a supine position with the knees flexed. Participants were instructed to perform a chin tuck and lift the head and neck approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the table. The time the position was maintained was recorded.
Lumbopelvic Stability Sleeve Test
Time frame: baseline
The test was performed in a supine position with the feet elevated 20 cm above the table. A pressure cuff inflated to 40 mmHg was placed under the lumbar region. Participants performed an abdominal drawing-in maneuver to maintain lumbopelvic stability, and the duration for which the pressure was maintained was recorded.
1 secondary outcome
Fatigue Severity Scale
Time frame: baseline
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 9 Sep 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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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.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
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 Gaming Disorder, run by Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology 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 5 inclusion and 1 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 9 Sep 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?
Postural Analysis (time frame: Baseline). The study lists 5 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 9 Sep 2026.