Knowledge and Practice of Stretching Exercises for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Pain Among School Teachers in Karachi: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems affecting school teachers because of prolonged standing, repetitive movements, awkward postures, and increased workload. Regular stretching exercises have been recommended as an effective strategy to improve flexibility, maintain joint mobility, and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal pain. However, limited evidence is available regarding teachers' knowledge and practice of stretching exercises in Pakistan. Objective: To assess the knowledge and practice of stretching exercises for the prevention of musculoskeletal pain among school teachers in Karachi. Methodology: An observational cross-sectional was conducted among 113 school teachers selected through non-probability convenience sampling from private schools in Karachi. Participants aged 20–50 years with at least six months of teaching experience and working more than five hours daily were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and questions assessing knowledge and practice of stretching exercises. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, Chi-square analysis, reliability testing, normality testing, multicollinearity, and homogeneity analyses were performed. Statistical significance was considered at p <0.05. Result: Among 113 participants, females constituted 91.2% of the sample. Most teachers (63.7%) reported performing stretching exercises; however, only 14.2% practiced stretching daily, whereas 70.8% performed stretching only occasionally. Significant associations were observed between stretching exercise practice and musculoskeletal pain prevalence (p=0.04). The number of painful body regions also demonstrated a significant association with pain prevalence (p<0.001). Conclusion: Although most teachers were aware of stretching exercises, regular practice remained insufficient. Appropriate stretching behavior was significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain, indicating the need for workplace health education and structured preventive exercise programs among school teachers.