Prevalence and Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Disorders in School Teachers During the Pre-covid and Pandemic Phases in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka – a Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among school teachers in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study included 254 secondary and pre-university teachers who completed a questionnaire. Results indicated a higher prevalence of MSDs among teachers working from home during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. Factors such as days worked per week, hours of work per day, duration of rest taken per day, posture while using books, laptops, and phones, working activities, and physical exercises without supervision were identified as contributing factors to MSDs. Interestingly, the study found that the working environment did not significantly affect the prevalence of MSDs. These findings highlight the importance of addressing ergonomic issues and promoting healthy work practices among teachers, especially during periods of remote work.