Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Amongst Adult Population of India

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent across the globe and are one of the commonest causes of long-term pain and disability, affecting millions of people all over the globe. Objective: To review the literature on studies conducted in India regarding prevalence of Musculoskeletal disorders and its associated factors in adult population in India. Methods: The review of literature was done using various online sites such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The National Medical Library was also searched and relevant papers from different journals were selected. Key words used in search included: Musculoskeletal disorders or pain, General population, Rural area, India. Result: The prevalence of MSD’s among the adult population was found to range between 6.92% - 76.8%. The studies have shown rural- urban difference in the prevalence as well as the health seeking behaviour for MSD’s. There is hardly any screening program existed. The review also shows that factors such as female gender, middle age, lower education status, performing moderate work and repetitive hand movements at work were significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain. Conclusion: A large proportion of the adult population who suffers from various MSD’s goes unrecognized either due to poor understanding of the various factors associated with it or due to less efficient screening and treatment opportunities. Therefore, a clear understanding of the various factors is must to identify these disorders in their earlier course and suitable treatment options to be provided along with the follow-up care.