Exploring the Impact of Caregiving on Musculoskeletal Health: Insights from Caregivers of Children with Cerebral Palsy

Le résumé fourni par la source

progressive motor disorders caused by disturbances in the developing fetal or infant brain, characterized primarily by impairments in movement and posture due to abnormalities in muscle tone, reflexes, motor control, and coordination.[1] CP is not a uniform condition; rather, it comprises a spectrum of clinical manifestations that may also involve sensory, perceptual, cognitive, communicative, and behavioral impairments, as well as epilepsy and secondary musculoskeletal problems.[2,3] With an estimated prevalence of 4.4/1000 live births in Turkey, CP constitutes one of the most common causes of childhood physical disability and places a significant burden on both families and healthcare systems.[4] Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency, severity, and regional distribution of musculoskeletal pain in primary caregivers of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and to investigate its associations with caregiving-related factors, including the child's motor impairment level and demographic variables.Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 84 caregivers of children with CP.Musculoskeletal complaints were assessed using the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and pain severity was measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) was used to assess the motor impairment level of the children.Associations between caregiver pain and clinical variables were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.Results: The most frequently reported pain regions were the lower back (69.0%),neck (59.5%), and shoulders (58.3%).Pain in these areas significantly interfered with daily activities.Statistically significant associations were found between higher GMFCS levels and increased shoulder, wrist/hand, upper back, and lower back pain.Older child age and caregiver age were also associated with greater musculoskeletal burden.VAS scores showed a positive correlation with both GMFCS level and caregiver age (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Musculoskeletal pain is common among caregivers of children with CP and is influenced by the severity of the child's motor disability and caregiver demographics.Preventive strategies, such as ergonomic education, regular screening, and multidisciplinary support should be integrated into pediatric rehabilitation services to protect caregiver health and ensure sustainable care.

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