Prevalence and pattern of musculoskeletal pain among undergraduates from a Nigerian University

Abstract

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is a common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability affecting millions of people around the world. This study investigated the prevalence and pattern of MSP among Nigerian undergraduates.

A cross-sectional survey of undergraduates from three purposively selected halls of residence of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria was conducted over a period of 10 weeks using a standardized Nordic questionnaire and a pre-tested questionnaire. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Of the 600 questionnaires administered 532 (88.67%) were fully completed and found admissible for analysis. The mean age of the respondents was 23.4±2.34 years (range 17-34)]. Lifetime and point prevalence of MSP was 54.5% and 51.7% respectively. Lifetime occurrence of MSP was highest in the low back (55.1%) followed by the neck (53.8%). Duration of pain resulting from MSP was 1-7 days and it prevented normal daily activities in 20.7% of respondents. There was a significant association between lifetime prevalence of MSP and each of age group (p = 0.001), sex (p = 0.046), lecture duration (0.001), and extracurricular activity (p = 0.001). Self-medication (55.6%) was the most common health practice for MSP.

Musculoskeletal pain is a common disorder among Nigerian undergraduates. The low back and the neck were the most affected. MSP was perceived to be caused by prolonged poor postures assumed during lectures, and it predisposes to limitation of daily activities. Preventive strategies to reduce MSP among Nigerian undergraduates are necessary.

Keywords: Musculoskeletal pain, university undergraduates, prevalence, pattern, Nigeria