Impact of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Caregivers of Spinal Cord Injury Patient at CRP: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Caregivers of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) are required to perform a number of physically demanding tasks such as, lifting and transferring and mobility assistance that can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among caregivers themselves. Such conditions further impact their physical health, emotional wellbeing, and potential to provide care. Objective: To assess the prevalence and impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in caregivers of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients admitted to the rehabilitation center of the authors' institution and determine associations with sociodemographic variables, function, and psychological burden. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 92 caregivers at CRP, Savar. Life Characteristics of Subjects, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the modified Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) were obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and correlation analysis were performed. Results: High prevalence of MSDs was found, especially in back (77%), wrist (69%), neck, and knee (67%). Other limitations included fatigue (87%) and difficulty bending (41%) or lifting (35%). Impact was also more common for female caregivers and low-education respondents. There was an important linear relationship between trouble at pain rank and trouble at the psychological scale (p = 0.022). Conclusions: The results highlight the urgent need for training for caregivers, ergonomic service delivery strategies, and health interventions to both reduce the risk for MSD and improve the well-being of caregivers. Keywords: Spinal cord injury, Caregiver, Musculoskeletal disorders, Pain, Caregiver burden.