Riding into Pain: Rhomboid Muscle Spasm and Neck Disability Among Occupational Motorcyclists
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65761/pjcr.2025.2.1.4Keywords:
Rhomboid muscle spasm, neck pain, occupational motorcyclists, neck disability index, musculoskeletal issuesAbstract
Riding and navigating traffics extended hours are occupational motorcyclists prone to musculoskeletal problems like rhomboid muscle spasms and neck pain. Rhomboid muscles are used to keep the shoulder blades in place and help with posture and they can be susceptible to strain during prolonged riding. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between neck pain and rhomboid muscle spasms in occupational motorcyclists in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A 6-month cross sectional study was undertaken among 150 male motorcycle riders aged 18-40 years. At least 10 diligent rides were completed by all participants daily. The level of neck disability and pain intensity were measured by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI). Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 25 and non-probability convenient sampling was used. The mean age was 28.92 ± 6.81 years old. Results of the Neck Disability Index showed that 75.6% of riders rated some forms of disability, 25.9% as severe, 50% as moderate, and 25.9% had no disability. There was moderate to severe pain in 68.1 % of participants. Analysis of the results yielded a significant association of pain intensity (p = 0.021) rhomboid muscle spasms. The study shows a very high frequency of rhomboid muscle spasms and neck pain in occupational motorcyclists. Increase in muscle tension and spasms is parallel to the reported pain and disability, occurring with prolonged riding. Treatment interventions like improved posture, ergonomic adjustments, regular breaks and exercises aimed at mitigating musculoskeletal issues associated with this population. The long-term effects of motorcycling on musculoskeletal health still needs further research.
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