The effect of neck pain and headaches on the academic performance of college students

NECK PAIN (NP) AND HEADACHE (HA) are both common causes of work disability. The object of this study was to determine the self-perceived effect of NP and HA on the academic performance of college students. A confidential survey was administered to a convenience sample of students asking about the prevalence and severity of NP and HA, and their perceived effect on academic performance. Correlations were also sought between these conditions and students' grade point average (CPA). One hundred eighteen students completed the survey. The 1-year prevalence for NP was 63.3%, and for HA was 94.0%. NP and HA both affected many students' studying (51.3% and 73.7%, respectively) and concentration in class (48.7% and 75.4%, respectively). The effect was most commonly minimal. At least one missed class day during the past year was reported because of NP in 6.8% of students, and because of HA in 23.7%. Few students reported multiple absences. Academic performance was reportedly affected by NP in 17.9% of students and by HA in 39.0%. Most of these students reported their performance was affected to a small degree. There was no significant correlation between respondents' CPA and their NP Index (Spearman's correlation coefficient = .141, p = .068) or HA Index (Spearman's correlation coefficient = .073, p = .221). Future studies should be conducted on a more representative sample of students, and should utilize more accurate measurements of academic performance.