Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Discomfort in Females Due to Preparations of Diwali festivities - A Cross-Sectional study

Introduction-Women who handle household tasks are at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to repetitive movements, strain, and poor ergonomics. Activities like cleaning and cooking can cause pain in the back, neck, wrists, and knees, especially without proper rest and posture. Moreover, these activities are increased during festivities in Indian households; especially for females. Diwali, being one of the biggest and most important festivals throughout the country, brings extra joy as well as the burden of extra household activities like cleaning, decorating, shopping, renovating homes etc. As there is limited literature on the impact of Diwali preparation on musculoskeletal health of females. Objectives-Aim of the study is to find the prevalence of Musculoskeletal discomfort in females due to preparations during Diwali festivities. Methodology- A total of 134 females (>20 years) were interviewed as part of a cross-sectional study. Questions for the interview assessed musculoskeletal discomfort related to Diwali preparations. Data included demographics, work details, self-reported discomfort, posture and sleep issues. Results – Musculoskeletal discomfort was prevalent across various age groups, with common issues in the neck, back, and lower limbs. Overall 82, 63, 62 and 52 participants had discomfort in lower back, upper back, neck and shoulder, respectively. Moreover, Full-time job participants reported discomfort in the lower back (66%), foot (60%), neck (57%) and upper back (54%), Part-time job participants had higher discomfort in the lower back (85%), neck (62%), upper back (54%). Furthermore, work-from-home participants mainly reported knee and lower leg discomfort (50%). Additionally, in homemakers lower back (63%) and lower leg (52%) discomfort were most common. Conclusion – This study concludes that lower back pain was the most frequent issue across all groups, with part-time job participants experiencing the highest rate of discomfort.