Risk factors and prevention strategies for musculoskeletal injuries associated with load carriage in military personnel: a systematic review
Risk factors and prevention strategies associated with load carriage
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5016/s1980-6574e10248553Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Musculoskeletal injuries present significant challenges to military personnel involved in load carriage activities, impacting operational readiness and individual well-being. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the risk factors and effective preventive measures for such injuries. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the risk factors and prevention strategies concerning musculoskeletal injuries associated with load carriage in military personnel.
METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in 2020 and updated in 2022 encompassed eight databases using keywords such as "load carrying," "injuries," and "military," alongside their synonyms. Data extracted included sample characteristics, load carriage specifics, intervention protocols, and musculoskeletal injury incidence. Meta-analysis using StatsDirect software estimated relative risk (RR).
RESULTS: Out of 7,673 initially screened articles, 13 met eligibility criteria. Primary risk factors examined included sex, age, body mass, distance traveled while carrying loads, and load weight. Meta-analysis revealed females had a relative risk of 1.56 (95% CI = 1.11 to 2.20) for musculoskeletal injuries during load carriage compared to males. Prevention strategies such as the use of antiperspirants, socks, and ballistic vests were evaluated.
CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this systematic review suggest that factors such as "female sex," "smoking," "increased walking distances with load," "increased weight of the load," and "increased duration of load carriage" may elevate the incidence of injuries. However, limited studies on prevention strategies precluded definitive conclusions. Further research is warranted in this area.
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