ASSESSMENT OF PATTERN AND TREATMENT OUTCOME OF CHILDREN WITH MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES

INTRODUCTION

The term musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), identifies a large group of conditions that result from traumatizing the body over a period of time. It is the buildup of trauma that causes the disorder (Mc Graw Hill Dictionary, 2002). MSDs are also referred to as Cumulative Traumatic Disorders (CTDs), Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS), or Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs). MSDs have various definitions. Some of the definitions rely on subjects reported frequency, duration or intensity of pain (Trinkoff, 2002) while others define subjects as any report of pain that causes changes in functioning (Garg, 1989).

Although many efforts have been made to analyze MSDs among children, the focus has been predominantly on causes of MSDs (Smedley et al., 2003). These efforts have minimally looked at the demographic features and on the association of the environment. It is in light of this fact that this study is aimed at assessing the pattern and treatment outcome of children with musculoskeletal injuries.

Statement of the problem

MSDs are significant global health problems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in addition to economic burdens incurred MSDs, suffering and pain is also experienced (BLS, 2003). Various studies have been carried out to determine the risk factors of MSDs and on strategies to control them. However, despite this, MSDs are still the most prevalent and the most common cause of disability among children worldwide.  Several other studies have reported high incidences of MSDs (Guo et al., 1995; Leggart & Smith, 2003). Despite the large literature on work related MSDs in other parts of the world, very little has been done in Nigeria, and specifically on the children who also experience MSDs at an exceeding rate. The size and complexity of the problems caused by MSDs calls for further investigation into the risk causing factors, analysis of the MSDs to find out the magnitude of the problem, and exploration of the effectiveness of the control measures put in place.

Research questions

Though a number of studies have been carried out and remedies suggested, the continued incidences of MSDs led to the following research questions:

1. What are the risk factors leading to musculoskeletal disorders among children?
2. What is the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among children?
3. What is the effect of different treatment methods on the injuries?

Objectives of the study

General Objectives

In an attempt to identify ways of preventing or reducing MSDs, this study in general aimed at assessing the patterns and treatment outcomes of children with musculoskeletal injuries.