Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Public Transport Users of Lahore

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect muscles, bones, and joints, leading to pain and disability. Public transport users are often exposed to risk factors such as prolonged sitting, repetitive stress, and poor ergonomics, increasing the likelihood of MSDs.Objective: To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among public transport users in Lahore.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 212 participants aged 18-50 years, recruited through non-probability convenience sampling from various bus stops and rickshaw stands in Lahore. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants provided informed consent.Results: The mean age of participants was 24.33 years (SD = 6.65), with 48.1% males and 51.9% females. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was highest in the neck (54.2%), upper back (57.1%), and ankles/feet (59.0%). Severity scores indicated that 26.37% had low, 70.23% moderate, and 3.29% high severity of symptoms.Conclusion: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among public transport users in Lahore is moderate, with significant impacts on the neck, upper back, and lower limbs. Ergonomic interventions are recommended to reduce these risks.