MUSCULOSKELETAL NECK PAIN AMONG CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS; RISK FACTORS AND COMPLICATIONS.

Objectives: Neck pain is a frequent spinal pain problem and considered an important health issue in the modern world. Neck pain may originate from intervertebrals discs, ligaments, muscles or of the structures involving the neck. The aim of this study was to find out characteristics along with social and psychological implications of musculoskeletal neck pain amongst children aged 8 to 18 years. Study Design: Descriptive study. Setting: Orthopedic Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Period: March 2017 to February 2018. Material & Methods: A total of 260 children and adolescents of both genders, aged 8 to 18 years and having musculoskeletal neck pain with spasm were enrolled in this study. A structured questionnaire was interviewed from participants or parents/guardians of this study. Results: Out of a total of 260 cases, there were 125 (48.1%) were boys and 135 (51.9%) girls. Most cases, 158 (60.8%) were between the age of 12 to 18 years while mean age amongst study participants was 14.58+2.63 years. Most of the children, 98 (37.7%) were studying in high school. All 260 cases had flawed flexion of back and neck during study and while using mobile phones or similar devices. Pain location involving neck was recorded in all 260 (100%) study participants while shoulder pain was demonstrated by 188 (72.3%). Most common eye symptoms were eye strain, in 64 (24.6%). Most of the cases, 180 (69.2%) were having irritability while poor communication was noted in 164 (63.1%). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal neck pain is frequent amongst children and adolescents. Hunching the head, neck and shoulders on mobile phones and similar devices, as well as improper posture during studying and watching television increase stress on cervical spine area, may be leading to musculoskeletal neck pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]