Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain Due to Online Classes During Covid-19 Lockdown Period Among Undergraduate Students: An Online Survey

Purpose: During covid-19 lockdown period, students spent their maximum time in using smart phones/ laptops for online classes and recreation. So, the purpose of this study was to find out the percentage of musculoskeletal pain in undergraduate students during covid-19 period. Secondly, this study aimed to find out the relationship between duration of smart phone/laptop usage and musculoskeletal pain and relationship between physical activity and musculoskeletal pain. Methods: In this prospective online survey, a Google form including student's consent, their demographic data and a self prepared questionnaire including 11 questions related to use of devices, their physical activity and musculoskeletal pain was created. Its link was sent to all the known faculties all over India and they were requested to send this link to their students. Then these responses were collected in an excel sheet and the data was analysed. Results: The percentage of students who were having pain during covid-19 period was 50.9%. Maximum number of students felt pain at eyes, neck and back. This study found a positive relationship between duration of smart phone/laptop usage and musculoskeletal pain however, it was mild relationship (r = 0.312) and a negative relationship between hours of vigorous activity or moderate activity and musculoskeletal pain which was also mild (r = -0.2). Conclusion: Excessive use of smart phones/ laptops for online classes or recreation and decreased physical activity during this covid-19 lockdown period leads to musculoskeletal pain.