Typing with mobile devices: A comparison of upper limb and shoulder muscle activities, typing performance and perceived workload under varied body postures, typing styles and device types

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effects of body posture, typing style and device type on upper limb and shoulder muscle activities, typing performance and perceived workload while typing with mobile devices. Participants were asked to type with two mobile devices (i.e., a tablet and a smartphone) under three postures and in two typing styles. Muscle activity was recorded for four upper limb and shoulder muscles on both sides with surface electromyography. Results showed that body posture and typing style yielded significant effects on tying performance, perceived workload, and muscle activities in the forearm, upper arm and shoulder. Typing with a tablet was more accurate and had greater muscle activities in the upper arm and forearm on both sides than typing with a smartphone. The findings may be useful in developing evidence-based guidelines for the wise use of mobile devices and for the prevention of risks for musculoskeletal disorders.

Keywords: Body posture; Mobile device; Muscle activity; Musculoskeletal disorder; Typing style.