Prevalence of Neck Pain in Physiotherapist

Background: Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among health professionals, including physiotherapists, who are often involved in activities that include holding a posture for a longer duration and performance of repetitive movements. The increased usage of smartphones and laptops enhances bad postures, particularly bending of the neck in flexion, adding to the problems related to neck pain. Objective: The present study has been taken up to assess the prevalence of neck pain among physiotherapists and their relation with gender and age. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 100 physiotherapists, of which 63 were females and 37 were males. Neck pain prevalence was assessed with the Neck Disability Index questionnaire. Data collection was done in person from November 2023 to February 2024. Results were statistically analyzed, with descriptive statistics shown in tabulations, graphs, and figures. Results: The overall prevalence of neck pain among the participants was 64%. In accordance with the NDI scale, the physiotherapists self-reported 39% to have mild disability; 23%, moderate disability; only 2% were severely disabled and none with complete disability. On a gender basis, females revealed a slightly higher prevalence of neck pain, 25%, compared to their male counterparts, 24%. Conclusion: In this study, a high prevalence of neck pain was found among physiotherapists, with a slightly increased occurrence in females. These findings bring out the importance of increasing awareness toward ergonomic practices and health regarding posture to decrease neck pain in physiotherapists. The modifiable risk factors identified will have an emphasis on the promotion of good postures with lifestyle modifications to aid in the prevention of neck pain in physiotherapists. Making these changes and taking up appropriate treatments form an important aspect of the management of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.