"Postural Scoliosis among Healthcare workers: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Prevalence and Influencing Factors in Mumbai"
Main Article Content
Abstract
Introduction:
Postural scoliosis (PS), clinically known as functional, is a non-permanent spinal deviation associated with prolonged static postures, repetitive stress, and poor ergonomic factors. Healthcare workers (HCW) are particularly vulnerable to this condition due to their extended working hours and sustained occupational postures.
Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of PS among HCW in tertiary hospitals in Mumbai and to assess its association of selected occupational and demographic factors.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 HCW aged between 21–60 years across three tertiary care hospitals in Mumbai, India, between January 2025 and April 2025. Participants included doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, laboratory technicians, and administrative staff. Screening for PS was conducted using visual postural assessment, the Adam’s Forward Bend Test, and scoliometer (SMtr) measurements, with trunk rotation >5° considered positive for scoliosis. Other information like age, sex, BMI, profession, working hours, years of service, physical activity, and ergonomics training were also collected.
Results: PS was identified in 96 out of 246 participants (39.0%). In this Prevalence the doctors accounted for (65.0%), and laboratory technicians (59.5%) stood second. Comparitively the nurses (26.4%), physiotherapists (23.1%), and administrative staff (5.6%) (p = 0.001) accounted for less. Physically inactive workers showed a significantly higher prevalence (66.2%) than active workers (3.7%) (p < 0.001). Scoliosis was more associated with higher age, BMI, years of service, working hours, and higher scores of SMtr(p = 0.001).
Conclusions: PS is common among HCW in tertiary hospitals in Mumbai and is strongly associated with occupational factors and physical inactivity. This study recommends that routine screening, ergonomic education, and promotion of physical activity be implemented in an effort to reduce musculoskeletal risk among HCW.