Cervical pain and the association with scapula and cervical dyskinesis in grade 7 learners in private schools in Tshwane

Abstract

Cervical pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that starts as early as adolescence and continues on into adulthood. Cervical pain in the adolescents is present worldwide and affects between 18-40% of all adolescents. Contributing factors to cervical pain vary from sex, an increase in age, emotional and psychological problems to sustained seated positions and sitting posture as well as the use of information technology. An association between cervical pain and scapula- and cervical dyskinesis has been seen in the adult population. The treatment of the dyskinesis in adults led to a significant decrease in cervical pain. Clinically, if scapula- and cervical dyskinesis is present potential strain on the cervical spine could lead to cervical pain and dysfunction. A possible association between scapula- and cervical dyskinesis and cervical pain in adolescents has not been explored. Furthermore, limited literature is available about the presence of cervical pain in South African adolescents. The purpose of this study was twofold; firstly, it was to determine the presence of cervical pain in Grade 7 learners in private schools in Tshwane, Gauteng, South Africa. Secondly, it was to determine the association of cervical pain with scapula- and cervical dyskinesis in the Grade 7 participants. Four private schools in the greater Tshwane took part in the study with a total of 123 Grade 7 learners participating. The learners had a mean age of 12.97 years. The data collection took place at the various schools in October and November 2016. The participants completed a questionnaire on cervical pain and questions on certain previously determined factors related to cervical pain. The Scapula Dyskinesis Test (SDT) and Overhead Arm Lift Test (OALT) were used to determine scapula and cervical dyskinesis.