Association Between Infant Lifting Ergonomics and Knee Pain Among Mothers Within Six Months Postpartum in Karachi: A Cross-Sectional Study
Keywords:
Postpartum period, Knee Pain, Ergonomics, Infant care, musculoskeletal disease, RehabilitationAbstract
Background:
To determine the association between infant-lifting ergonomics and knee pain among mothers within six months postpartum in Karachi.
Material and Methods:
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among mothers with infants aged 0–6 months attending public and private healthcare facilities in Karachi using snow ball sampling technique. Knee pain was assessed using a numeric pain rating scale and categorized as present or absent. Infant-lifting ergonomics were evaluated using a structured questionnaire addressing lifting frequency, posture (squat/hip hinge versus trunk flexion with knee valgus), lifting surface height, and carrying duration. Covariates included age, body mass index, parity, delivery mode, prior knee pain, infant weight, and physical activity level. Associations were examined using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results:
Among 320 participants, knee pain prevalence was 46.9%. Mothers reporting frequent trunk-flexed lifting with poor knee alignment had higher odds of knee pain (adjusted OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.48–3.92, p < 0.001). Increased daily lifting frequency and higher infant weight were independently associated with knee pain. Proper squat-based lifting showed a protective association.
Conclusion:
Suboptimal infant-lifting ergonomics are significantly associated with knee pain among early postpartum mothers. Ergonomic education may reduce musculoskeletal burden in this population.
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