Year: 2025 | Month: July | Volume: 15 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 289-302
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20250736
Identify Musculoskeletal Condition in Physiotherapy Students During Clinical Postings
Dr. Rajiv D. Limbasiya1, Dr. Trusha Gabani2, Dr. Hemaxi Korat2, Dr. Shreya Rana2, Dr. Sujit Vasava3
1PT, Ph. D, Principal IC and Associate Professor, The Sarvajanik College of Physiotherapy, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat.
2BPT, The Sarvajanik College of Physiotherapy, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat.
3Ph. D Scholar, Assistant Professor, Shrimad Rajchandra College of Physiotherapy, Uka Tarsadia University,
Corresponding Author: Dr. Rajiv Limbasiya
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal conditions impact physiotherapy students due to the physically demanding nature of their training, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and potential career concerns. Key risk factors include poor ergonomics, excessive physical strain, lack of experience, and inadequate training.
METHOD: A survey design was employed, recruiting students in the clinical phase (3rd, 4th year, interns) of the programme who expressed willingness to participate. Data was collected on age, gender, year of study, and standing (treating patients and practicing techniques) in the past 2 week. Participants completed the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and Orebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire (OMPQ).
RESULT: Investigated musculoskeletal condition among 233 Physiotherapy students in Surat during clinical postings. Most participants (84.5%) were female, and large portion (74.7%) attended postings 5-6 days/week. Lower back pain (41.6%) and neck/shoulder pain (37.3%) were the most common complains. 45.1% reported that physical discomfort affected that ability to perform tasks. 60.1% believed their current musculoskeletal condition could impact their long-term career. Discomfort was mostly rated as slight (67.4%) or moderate (30.5%), rarely severe. Statistical analysis was done in form of Descriptive and inferential statistics. CMDQ and OMPQ scores showed a moderate positive correlation (r=0.572, p=0.000). Regression analysis found no significant impact of clinical hours, Patient load, or gender on musculoskeletal condition severity.
CONCLUSION: The study highlights that prolonged clinical exposure and high patient loads contribute to musculoskeletal discomfort among physiotherapy students, emphasizing the need for ergonomic training and workload management to ensure long-term health and career sustainability.
Key words: Physiotherapy student, Musculoskeletal condition.