Abstract :
Introduction: There is little internationally comparable statistical data on incidence, trends and distribution
of disability. Musculoskeletal diseases are one of major causes of disability. Aim of this study is to
retrospectively analyze data of physically disabled population of musculoskeletal affection.
Materials and Methods: Permanent disability of more than 40% of musculoskeletal affection in all
ages and both sexes of single district of our state who voluntarily attended Disability Assessment and
Certification Camp at Department of Orthopaedics at our teaching institute on first and third Friday
of every month from 2012 to 2017 were included. Temporary disability, disability of hearing, visual,
mental retardation etc., disability of less than 40% and disabled evaluated and certified at camps outside
our Institution were excluded. Disability percentage was calculated as per standard method prescribed
by Guidelines and Gazette by Government of India. Diagnosis was clinical in majority but whenever
needed, appropriate investigations were done. Educational and occupational status was evaluated on using
Kuppuswamy’s method. Authors realized that monthly income in each category of Kuppuswamy’s method
was quite low considering today’s context and therefore was modified and used to evaluate income status.
Results: 367 persons fulfilled our criteria and included. Mean age was 29.67 years (1-69 years). Majority
(20.99%) in 30-40 years age and least (6.82%) in 60-70 age. Males (73.30%) and rural population (75.75%)
were thrice more common than their counterparts. Highest percentage of disability was 95%, average
being 60.85% and majority (42.78%) had 40-50% disability. Acquired conditions (63.76%) were almost
double to congenital condition (36.24%). Cerebral palsy (45.12%) was most common congenital cause
and amputation (17.95%) was most common acquired cause. Illiterate, primary school certificate and
middle school certificate constituted majority (71.38%). Clerical job, Shop owner and Farm owner was
most common (39.84%) followed by un-skilled worker (20.71%) and unemployed (13.90%). 23.83 % had
monthly income of Rs 1000 or less and 22.26 % had between Rs 1001 to Rs 2999.
Conclusion: This study provides an epidemiological data of musculoskeletal disabled population which can
be utilized for policy making and implementation for prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programs.
Keyword :
Disability, Musculoskeletal.