Prevalence and risk factors associated with cervical radiculopathy among software engineers in Egypt: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, including neck pain and cervical radiculopathy, are common among software engineers due to prolonged computer use and poor ergonomics. However, research on the prevalence and risk factors of cervical radiculopathy among software engineers in Egypt is limited. Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cervical radiculopathy among software engineers in Cairo, Egypt, and to identify its associated risk factors. Methods Four hundreds software engineers of both sexes, aged from 20 to 40 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. Software engineers were recruited from various software companies in Cairo, Egypt. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, work history, and neck pain symptoms. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and cervical radiculopathy was confirmed using the Foraminal Distraction Test. Pain intensity and neck disability were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale and Neck Disability Index, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression, with significance set at p  < 0.05. Results The results revealed a high prevalence of cervical radiculopathy (48.5%; 95% CI 43.64–53.39%) and neck pain (76.5%; 95% CI 72.1–80.4%) among software engineers. Significant associations were found between cervical radiculopathy and several factors: increasing age, overweight or obesity, female sex, extended work experience, long working hours, fewer breaks, and forward head posture while using the monitor. There was no significant association with using a chair with adjustable height. Conclusion Cervical radiculopathy is common among software engineers in Egypt, influenced by age, BMI, sex, work experience, working hours, break frequency, and posture. Interventions targeting ergonomic improvements and work habits may help mitigate these issues.