Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can be defined as injuries or pain affecting the musculoskeletal system. MSD prevalence is high among healthcare professionals. Considering the stress of education and physical burden of clinical training, musculoskeletal conditions might begin during healthcare professionals’ student years.

Objective

This study aimed to critically analyze the literature regarding the prevalence of MSDs for different body areas among students studying at health professions colleges in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A meta-analysis calculated event rates with relative 95% confidence intervals for each body region. Two reviewers systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Scopus databases. Initial search was completed on 22 May 2023; then updated 24 June 2025. Data was extracted, and quantitative synthesis performed based on eligibility criteria. Studies were included if they evaluated the prevalence of MSDs affecting at least one body part and were conducted among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia. Studies that did not specifically report the type or anatomical location of musculoskeletal disorders were excluded.

Results

Forty-two (42) studies, including 15,747 students from health professions colleges, were included. Highest 12-month MSD prevalence was reported for conditions affecting lower back (47%), neck (46%), upper back (33%) and shoulder (34%). Highest 7-day MSD prevalence was also for conditions affecting lower back (31%), neck (27%), upper back (17%) and shoulder (19%).

Conclusions

MSDs are prevalent among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia, particularly in certain regions, emphasizing the need for early assessment and intervention.