PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF NECK AND SHOULDER PAIN AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS IN A MILITARY MEDICAL SCHOOL IN THAILAND
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55374/jseamed.v8.221Keywords:
neck pain, shoulder pain, medical students, prevalence, associated factors, ThailandAbstract
Background: Medical students often face intense coursework and prolonged study hours, contributing to stress and potential neck and shoulder pain. The integration of technology in learning further increases this risk. Neck and shoulder pain (NSP) can decrease learning efficiency and well-being. Previous studies have reported varying prevalence rates globally, but specific data for Thai medical students are lacking.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of NSP among medical students in Thailand.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students at Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Thailand, from December 2022 to November 2023. Data was collected using an online self-reported questionnaire adapted from the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic data, neck and shoulder pain symptoms, pain intensity (Numeric Rating Scales - NRS), pain-related factors, and stress levels (Srithanya Stress Scale - ST-5).
Results: Of 500 medical students, 360 completed the questionnaire with a 72% response rate. The prevalence of significant NSP (NRS ≥ 4) was 38.33% (95% CI: 33.42%-43.43%). Multivariable analysis revealed significant associations between significant NSP and factors such as having experienced these symptoms in the past year (AOR: 7.73, 95% CI: 2.60-22.98), being female (AOR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.06-2.77), adopting rounded shoulder and forward head postures (AOR: 2, 95% CI: 1.0 -3.80), and high-stress levels (ST-5 score ≥ 8) (AOR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.27-3.59).
Conclusion: NSP is common among medical students, especially females. Key risk factors identified include a history of neck and shoulder pain, poor posture, and elevated stress levels. Medical schools are recommended to implement ergonomic interventions and stress management programs to reduce those risks.
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