Original Research Article
Year: 2021 | Month: May | Volume: 11 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 67-73
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20210510
Comparison of Musculoskeletal Disorders in School Going Children Before and After COVID-19
Neha P Patel1, Megha S Sheth2
1Postgraduate Physiotherapy Student, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
2Lecturer, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Corresponding Author: Neha P Patel
ABSTRACT
Background: An outbreak of corona virus (COVID-19) disease causing severe acute respiratory syndrome first occurred in China. About 107 countries implemented school closures. This lockdown/quarantine was associated with changes in the daily activity among children, where less physical activity and more use of electronic devices was seen. The study aimed to compare musculoskeletal disorders among children before and after COVID-19.
Methodology: One hundred thirty one school-going children, selected by convenience sampling, aged 6-18 years, studying online since at least one month, participated in this cross-sectional study. The participants filled a self-designed, close-ended questionnaire of 24 items. Descriptive analysis was done using Microsoft excel.
Results: 80% children (average age13.7 years) used electronic devices less than 2 hours for study, 90% for games, social media and communication before COVID-19. After COVID-19, 93%children used electronic devices more than 2 hours for study, 72% children used electronic devices less than 2 hours for games, social media and communication.51% children had musculoskeletal pain after COVID-19. Children with pain in the neck (39%), back (15%), neck and back (12%), right or left shoulder (6%), both shoulders (6%) and more than one part involved (21%). Neck pain was mild (28%), moderate (65%), severe (6.7%). Severity of back pain was mild (55%), moderate (32%), severe (14%). Severity of shoulder pain seen was mild (75%), moderate (26%).Severity of arm pain was mild (84%), moderate (17%). 52% Children were exercising before COVID-19, 60% after COVID-19.
Conclusion: After COVID-19 there is an increase in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (neck, back, shoulder and arm pain) among children with an increase in the time of use of electronic devices.
Key words: Knowledge and practice, child survival strategies, mothers, south Nigeria.