Benefits of musculoskeletal health promotion in school communities through service-learning: a mixed-method approach

Service-learning (S-L) is an educational method that enhances social and civic engagement among health science students, addressing unmet community needs. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSKD) represent a public health issue with increasing prevalence among school-aged population as reported by at least 1 on 5 children. Prevention programs for MSKD in schools are scarce, although evidence supports the efficacy of health education provided by physical therapists. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a musculoskeletal health promotion program through S-L on school students, teachers, and physical therapy students.

A mixed-methods approach was used. A quasi-experimental design assessed the learning and satisfaction of school students and teachers using pre-and post-intervention questionnaires. Additionally, qualitative data from reflective diaries of fourth-year physical therapy students were analyzed to capture their experiences. The intervention was conducted in 10 schools in Spain over two academic years, targeting children aged 10-14 and their teachers.

A total of 1,051 school students and 32 teachers participated. Pre-post evaluations revealed significant learnings on MSKD prevention and body awareness in both groups (p < 0.05), highlighting the increase in knowledge about MSKD prevention and self-treatment for school students and on MSKD derived from inadequate postures for schoolteachers. Satisfaction was high, with students and teachers rating the program 4.4/5. Teachers highlighted the value of training for their professional practice, while students appreciated learning about self-care. Physical therapy students were 4 and reflected on their motivation for the project, learning experiences, as well as positive and negative aspects of the service.

The S-L community-based intervention effectively increased awareness of musculoskeletal health and self-management skills. The peer learning environment and participatory approach encouraged engagement and knowledge retention in both students and teachers.

S-L is a valuable strategy for promoting musculoskeletal health in schools while improving health education skills among the future physical therapists through experiential learning.