A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Effects of Schoolbag Weight and Musculoskeletal Health Problems in Primary School Students of Kolhapur

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal pain in school children is becoming new topic of health concern. Government recommendation of safe load limit of schoolbag is 10% of body weight. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal health problems in primary school students of Kolhapur. Methodology: This school based cross sectional study included 886 primary students (age 6-10 years). Institutional Ethical Com- mittee Consent, consent from School Authorities and parents was taken before conducting the study. Author-assisted questionnaire and a digital weighing scale were used as tools of assessment. Analysis was done using SPSS software and results were consid- ered significant when p 10% body weight. 64% (n= 567) complained of mus- culoskeletal discomfort related to carrying their schoolbag. Conclusions: Prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in students from English medium schools and Marathi medium schools was 77.4% & 36.9% respectively; prevalence of musculoskeletal symp- toms is higher in CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Educa- tion)pattern schools (73%)than in SSC (Secondary School Certifi- cate) pattern schools (55%). The study provides practically feasible solutions to tackle the mus- culoskeletal health problems in primary school students and em- phasizes on securing ‘the health’ in a healthy childhood.

Keywords

• School children
• Primary School
• Body weight
• Schoolbag weight
• musculoskeletal health