Impact Of An Educational Package On Knowledge Regarding Body Mechanics Among School Children

Abstract

Prolonged sitting, improper lifting, and unergonomic school environments contribute to postural abnormalities, spinal misalignments, and musculoskeletal pain among children. Studies worldwide have reported a high prevalence of back, neck, and shoulder pain in this age group, leading to decreased physical performance, poor academic focus, and potential long-term health issues. Prevention of such disorders through early education about proper body mechanics is essential. Body mechanics involve the correct use of muscles and posture to minimize strain and injury during daily physical activities such as sitting, standing, lifting, and carrying. Educating school children on correct body mechanics can significantly reduce the risk of MSDs, improve comfort during school hours, and promote healthier lifelong habits. This was a pre-experimental study (one-group pre-test post-test design). The sample included 60 school children from G.K. Public School, Moradabad, U.P. Data were gathered through a self-structured knowledge questionnaire.  In the pre-test, 86.7% of students had poor knowledge. Post-intervention, 75% of students achieved good knowledge. A significant improvement was observed in both knowledge (mean pre-test: 7.78, post-test: 15.98) at p<0.05. Significant associations were found between pre-test knowledge scores and demographic variables such as age, class, gender, religion, area of residency, and mode of transportation.