Prevalence of Musculo-skeletal Discomfort and Level of Functional Limitations among Physiotherapists in Karachi City

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal discomfort is one of the most prevalent muscular pain condition hindering normal activities reported by physical therapists and health care professionals generally engaged in handling and mobilizing patients. The study was conducted to find the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort and level of functional limitations in physiotherapists. Method: This research was questionnaire based cross sectional study conducted in Karachi city from January to April 2019.Data collection was completed from registered physical therapists employed in different institutions. Two questionnaires were filled by the physiotherapists. Questionnaire 01, including thirteen questions on functional activities of daily life which are potentially related to functional areas of Neck Disability Index (NDI). Questionnaire 02 was based on 1987 version of Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. Results: Participation of 80 physical therapists in the study.75% was directly involved with patient handling and 25% were teachers. A total of 35% therapists reported 7 days symptoms prevalence with a higher prevalence in cervical (77.1%), lower back (68.6%) and upper back (51.4%).Similarly 65% workers showed previous 12 month symptoms with higher prevalence in neck (72.3%). Gender prevalence of 7days and 12 months was high in female therapist. Conclusion: It has been concluded that 12 month prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort was 65%, whereas 7 days was 35% and level of functional limitation from activities was insignificant. Keywords: Epidemiology, musculoskeletal discomfort, Severity, Physical therapy,