Community Practices and Perceptions of Self-medication and Faith Healing for Musculoskeletal Complaints in India: A Cross-sectional Analysis and Stakeholder Framework for Intervention

Background: Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are a leading cause of disability globally, often managed initially through self-care. In low-resource settings, this manifests as self-medication and faith healing, practices poorly understood in an orthopedic context. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing these practices for MSK complaints and develop a strategic framework for their regulation. Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted, combining a cross-sectional survey on knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding self-medication for MSK pain with a qualitative stakeholder analysis. Adults ( n = 250) from urban and semi-urban communities were surveyed. Concurrently, a power-interest matrix was constructed to map key stakeholders (e.g., patients, pharmacists, regulators, and faith healers) influencing these practices. Results: High prevalence of self-medication (78%) was reported for MSK complaints, primarily with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (92%). Common sources were pharmacies (85%) and previous prescriptions (65%). Faith healing was sought by 32% of respondents, often concurrently with self-medication. Key reasons included cost-effectiveness (70%), quick access (65%), and deep-seated cultural beliefs (45%). Stakeholder analysis identified pharmaceutical companies and regulators as high-power players, while local pharmacists and faith healers were high-interest, low-power influencers directly shaping community behavior. Conclusion: The use of self-medication and faith healing for MSK conditions is widespread, driven by accessibility, cost, and belief systems. A successful intervention strategy must target high-interest community-level stakeholders through education while engaging high-power regulatory bodies to control drug availability and legitimize safe practices.