The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and its Associated Factors among Female Saudi School Teachers

Abstract Background: Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is a major occupational health concern, particularly among teachers due to physical demands of their profession. The risk of developing MSK pain increases with prolonged standing, repetitive movement and work-related stress. It can lead to reduced work efficiency and decreased quality of life. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSK pain among Saudi female schoolteachers in Makkah region. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey. The sample included 315 Saudi female teachers working in governmental and private schools in Makkah region. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, and Chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis were performed. Results: Most of the participants were aged 50–59 years, while 42.6% of them had healthy weights, followed by 34.5% being overweight. Exactly 60.3% of participants had MSK pain in the past 6 months, commonly affecting lower back (58.5%), knees (52.8%), shoulders (51.3%) and neck (44.1%). Logistic regression recognised predictors of back pain, including increased age, obesity and overweight and lack of physical activity. Conclusion: MSK pain is a prevalent issue in our study most commonly affecting lower back and knees. Numerous factors contributed to the high prevalence. These results underscore the need for enhanced awareness programmes to reduce the burden of MSK pain among Saudi female educators.