Original Research Article
Year: 2021 | Month: October | Volume: 11 | Issue: 10 | Pages: 214-219
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20211028
Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorder among College Students in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic - An Observational Study
Saumya P. Prajapati1, Alpa Purohit2
1Post Graduate Physiotherapy Student (MPT in Orthopedics), Ahmedabad Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
2Senior Lecturer and Vice Principal, Ahmedabad Institute of Medical Sciences, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Corresponding Author: Saumya P. Prajapati
ABSTRACT
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are defined as disorders and/or injuries that affect muscles, tendons, skeleton, cartilage, ligaments and nerves. Due to Covid-19, educational institutions were shut down which led to dependency on online classes. Due to decreased physical activity and spending more time on electronic devices in incorrect postures may lead to musculoskeletal disorders.
Purpose of study: To find out the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among college students during Covid-19 pandemic to help students know the most prone body areas for musculoskeletal discomfort so as to plan for ergonomic modification and for uplifting musculoskeletal health.
Methodology: A ‘Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire’ was filled by 250 college students by means of Google forms. Statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel 2007.
Results: Among 250 students 64.4% had at least one musculoskeletal symptom in the previous year. The affection was in Lower back (38%), Neck (36.4%), Shoulder (27.20%), Upper back (22%), Knee (13.60%), Wrist (13.20%), Ankle (12.40%), Elbow (6.80%), Hip (6.40%).
Conclusion: This study concluded that due to increased screen-time on electronic devices during COVID-19 led to high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (64.4%) in college students. The highest musculoskeletal disorder was found in Lower back region (38%).
Key words: Musculoskeletal disorder, College students, COVID-19.