# Correlating Movement Impairments As Potential Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Dysfunction: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Analysis in a Rehabilitation Setting

## TL;DR

This study finds a strong link between movement impairments and musculoskeletal disorders, suggesting movement issues could be a risk factor.

## Contribution

The study provides empirical evidence supporting motion impairments as a potential risk factor for musculoskeletal dysfunction.

## Key findings

- All individuals with musculoskeletal disorders had co-existing motion impairments.
- A Pearson's correlation coefficient of 1 indicates a strong positive relationship between motion impairments and musculoskeletal dysfunction.
- Linear regression showed an R2 of 1, meaning motion impairments fully explain variation in musculoskeletal dysfunction.

## Abstract

Background: Mechanical musculoskeletal disorders diminish quality of life and increase healthcare costs but lack prevention strategies. The lack of validated risk factors may be a reason. This study supports the previously hypothesized motion impairments as one potential risk factor in causing mechanical musculoskeletal disorders.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of individuals in a rehabilitation setting with mechanical musculoskeletal disorders was done to identify the presence of co-existing motion impairments. A correlational analysis of their co-existing presence with a description of how they may directly contribute to those disorders followed.

Results: All individuals with mechanical musculoskeletal disorders whose charts were reviewed, presented with co-existing motion impairments. Pearson's correlation coefficient (R) was 1 indicating a strong positive correlation between variables. Linear regression revealed a coefficient of determination (R2) of 1 suggesting that variation in the dependent variable was explained by the independent variable.

Conclusion: The results of this study may be of value as a hypothesis generator highlighting the need for the investigation of motion impairments as a potential risk factor for musculoskeletal dysfunction.