DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2023.v11i08.035

Pages: 1587-1593

Background: It is essential to uncover musculoskeletal symptom prevalence and associated risk factors among the working population to establish effective prevention and intervention strategies. While studies worldwide report significant risk among patient care attendants (PCAs), evidence is lacking in the context of Bangladesh. Objectives: The study aimed to assess musculoskeletal symptom prevalence in the last 7 days and 12 months, and explore links to socio-demographic and physical risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 50 participants selected via convenient sampling from BRB hospitals in Dhaka, conducted between July 2019 and December 2019. The Modified Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire assessed musculoskeletal symptoms, their associations with socio-demographic factors, and physical risk factors among patient care attendants (PCAs). Result: The findings revealed significant musculoskeletal symptom prevalence among patient care attendants (PCAs). Neck pain was prominent at 44%, mean 1.660 (SD = ± 0.478), followed by lower back and ankle/foot at 36%, mean 1.640 (SD = ± 0.484), and knee at 26%, mean 1.740 (SD = ± 0.443). Wrist and shoulder reported 18%, mean 1.820 (SD = ± 0.388), while upper back and hip reported 8%, mean 1.920 (SD = ± 0.274). Elbow symptoms were at 4%, mean 1.960 (SD = ± 0.197). In the past 12 months, 34% reported neck pain, mean 1.660 (SD = ± 0.478), and 32% reported lower back symptoms, mean 1.680 (SD = ± 0.471). The most affected body part was the neck. Socio-demographic factors were significantly linked to musculoskeletal symptoms. Identified work-related physical risk factors included prolonged standing (90%) and slight trunk bending (54%). Frequent arm, hand, or finger movements constituted the second-highest risk at 70%. Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a significant global concern, affecting patient care attendants. Effective ergonomic management is crucial to mitigate risks, necessitating .......