Prevalence and Pattern of Pediatric Musculoskeletal Deformities in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Pediatric musculoskeletal deformities are an important cause of childhood disability, leading to impaired mobility, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life. Data on the pattern of these deformities in Bangladesh are limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of pediatric musculoskeletal deformities in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2023 to June 2024. A total of 320 children aged 0–18 years with clinically diagnosed musculoskeletal deformities were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, deformity pattern, anatomical distribution, severity, associated clinical conditions, and rehabilitation interventions were collected through clinical assessment and medical record review. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used for data analysis. Results: The mean age of the participants was 8.6±4.1 years, and 59.4% were male. Cerebral palsy-related deformities (25.9%) were the most common condition, followed by clubfoot (21.3%), genu valgum (13.1%), and scoliosis (10.0%). Lower limb involvement was observed in 61.9% of children, while 52.5% had bilateral deformities. Moderate deformities accounted for 45.0% of cases. Developmental delay was the most common associated condition (20.0%). Physiotherapy (90.6%) and home exercise programmes (76.9%) were the most frequently recommended interventions. A significant association was found between deformity severity and developmental delay (χ²=27.35, p<0.001). Conclusion: Cerebral palsy-related deformities and clubfoot were the predominant pediatric musculoskeletal deformities in this tertiary rehabilitation center, with lower limb involvement being the most common presentation. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, and timely intervention are essential to improve functional outcomes in affected children.

Journal of Paediatric Surgeons of Bangladesh (2026) Vol. 17 (1): 100-104