Abstract:
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders among nursing mothers have become a significant health problem. Prolonged breastfeeding sessions and frequent lifting and carrying of infants contribute to increased strain on different body regions, leading to discomfort and functional limitations. These challenges can significantly affect mothers' quality of life and disturb their ability to perform daily activities. Therefore, this study aims to highlight the burden and contributing factors of musculoskeletal disorders in nursing mothers, which is crucial for assessing and addressing their physical burden.
Objective: Aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of musculoskeletal disorders among nursing mothers in Jimma town, Oromia Region, Southwest Ethiopia, 2024.
Method: An institutional-based multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted on 407 study participants using a systematic random sampling technique from July to September 2024. An interview-administered questionnaire developed from a standard Nordic questionnaire was used. The data was collected by the Kobo toolbox and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bivariable logistic regression analysis was employed with a p-value less than 0.25. Finally, those variables at a p-value less than 0.05 with a 95% CI in multivariable analysis were taken as statistically significant.
Result: The overall prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was 69.8% (95% CI: 65.1, 74.2). Nursing mothers aged >35 years old (AOR = 4.043; 95% CI: 1.773–9.220), physical inactivity (AOR = 2.011; 95% CI = 1.067–3.790), postpartum depresion (AOR = 2.926; 95% CI = 1.651– 5.186), candle brestfeeding position (AOR=4.654 95% CI; 1.803-12.014), back carry child carry methods (AOR=4.579; 95% CI; 1.580-13.275), not having child care assistance (AOR=2.437 95% CI; 1.436-4.134) were significantly associated with musculoskeletal disorders.
Conclusion and recommendation: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among nursing mothers was found to be 69.8%. Increased maternal age, physical inactivity, postpartum depression, candle-hold breastfeeding position, back carry child carrying methods, and not having childcare assistance showed a statistically significant association with musculoskeletal disorder. All concerned bodies should pay attention to maternal health considering their physical burden.
