Prevalence and patterns of musculoskeletal pain among undergraduate students of occupational therapy and physiotherapy in a South African university

Abstract

Background:

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) conditions are common in the educational leaning environment and are often associated with poor ergonomic conditions.

Objective:

This study investigated the prevalence, pattern and possible risk factors of MSP among undergraduate students of occupational therapy and physiotherapy in a South African university.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey using an internet-based self-designed electronic questionnaire was used to obtain information about participants’ socio-demography, ergonomic hazards, MSP, and relevant personal information. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistic regression were used in analyzing the data.

Results:

There were 145 participants (females 115 (79.3%); physiotherapy (74) 51.03%), making 36.7% of the present undergraduate student population in the two departments. The most prevalent ergonomic work hazards were prolonged sitting (71.7%) and repetitive movements (53.8%). The 12 months prevalence of MSP among the students was 89.7%. The pattern of MSP revealed that pain on the neck region was most prevalent (66.2%) followed by pain in the low back region (64.4%). Duration of daily travels and participation in regular exercise activities were significantly associated with the prevalence of MSP. Logistic model explained 23.6% of the variance in prevalence of MSP and correctly classified 94.1% of cases ( ${\chi }^2=13.73$ , $p=0.03$ ). The right-handed students were 0.13 times more likely to present with MSP than left-handed students. Also, students who exercised regularly were 9.47 times less likely to present with MSP.

Conclusion:

MSP is highly prevalent among health science undergraduates and is significantly associated with sedentary postures and inadequacy in structured physical activity participation.