Physical disability of musculoskeletal affection- Retrospective analysis of data in a teaching institute

Abstract

Introduction: There is little internationally comparable statistical data on incidence, trends and distribution of disability. Musculoskeletal diseases are one of major causes of disability. Aim of this study is to retrospectively analyze data of physically disabled population of musculoskeletal affection. Materials and Methods: Permanent disability of more than 40% of musculoskeletal affection in all ages and both sexes of single district of our state who voluntarily attended Disability Assessment and Certification Camp at Department of Orthopaedics at our teaching institute on first and third Friday of every month from 2012 to 2017 were included. Temporary disability, disability of hearing, visual, mental retardation etc., disability of less than 40% and disabled evaluated and certified at camps outside our Institution were excluded. Disability percentage was calculated as per standard method prescribed by Guidelines and Gazette by Government of India. Diagnosis was clinical in majority but whenever needed, appropriate investigations were done. Educational and occupational status was evaluated on using Kuppuswamy’s method. Authors realized that monthly income in each category of Kuppuswamy’s method was quite low considering today’s context and therefore was modified and used to evaluate income status. Results: 367 persons fulfilled our criteria and included. Mean age was 29.67 years (1-69 years). Majority (20.99%) in 30-40 years age and least (6.82%) in 60-70 age. Males (73.30%) and rural population (75.75%) were thrice more common than their counterparts. Highest percentage of disability was 95%, average being 60.85% and majority (42.78%) had 40-50% disability. Acquired conditions (63.76%) were almost double to congenital condition (36.24%). Cerebral palsy (45.12%) was most common congenital cause and amputation (17.95%) was most common acquired cause. Illiterate, primary school certificate and middle school certificate constituted majority (71.38%). Cleric