Prevalence and pattern of musculoskeletal disorders among load carriers in Kano metropolis

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders constitute a major health challenge for load carriers and the general population. Work – related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is seen as the most expensive occupational disease in the workplace and leading work-related health concern, in developed as well as developing countries. Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence and pattern of musculoskeletal disorders among load carriers in Kano metropolis. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 182 load carriers in Kano. Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaires was used to collect data for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms in an ergonomic or occupational health context. Result: A very high proportion of load carriers (87%) presented with one form of WMSD or the other. With regards to patterns of MSDs, most of the load carriers reported upper and low back pain with 71% and 61% respectively. This is followed by the neck accounting for almost 60%. Conclusion: This pattern is a clear indication that the most vulnerable part of our body likely to be affected often due to heavy and poor lifting technique, is the spine. Recommendation: This calls for a concerted effort to raise awareness and enlighten load carriers the need for proper manual handling technique in order to reduce the burden of WMSD and prevent subsequent spine destruction in later life.