Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Prison Inmates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

MSK (musculoskeletal) disorders (MSDs) significantly limit physical activity and the general quality of life of patients. Prison inmates have poor access to quality health care, which may hinder their rehabilitation journey. This study assessed the prevalence of MSDs among prison inmates.

Electronic databases were searched from inception to July 2025. Studies were screened, and relevant data were extracted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to pool the prevalence of MSDs among inmates. The quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and bias was measured using the funnel plot, the Egger test, and leave-one-out sensitivity analysis.

A total of 16 studies were included from 1089 initially retrieved from database searches. A total of 21 536 prison inmates were included in these studies, of which 4016 had MSDs. Pooled prevalence of overall MSDs (diagnosed and self-reported) among prisoners was 25% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 18%-33%). Clinically diagnosed and self-reported MSDs had a prevalence of 18% (95% CI = 13%-24%) and 30% (95% CI = 20%-39%), respectively. The funnel plots and the Egger tests show no publication bias, with sensitivity analyses showing that no single research significantly influences the pooled effect sizes.

Musculoskeletal disorders may affect 1 in 4 prison inmates, with associated debilitating effects on both physical and mental health. Given that this population has limited access to quality care and considering that the aim of incarceration is rehabilitation, it is essential to prioritize and address the health effects of MSK disorders among prison inmates.