A prospective study of estimation of musculoskeletal impairments in post chikungunya viral infection

Abstract

Introduction: Chikungunya is an infection caused by the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Symptoms include fever and joint pains. These typically occur two to twelve days after exposure. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and a rash. Symptoms usually improve within a week; however, occasionally the joint pain may last for months or years. The risk of death is around 1 in 1,000. The very young, old, and those with other health problems are at risk of more severe disease. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted among total of 66 subjects who were infected by Chikungunya virus. This study was conducted in Department of General Medicine, Santhiram Medical College and hospital, Nandyal. Sample size was calculated by n=4pq/L2. Both males and females infected by chikungunya virus between age of 30 to 60 were included according to inclusion exclusion criteria. People with rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other red flag symptoms were excluded based on detailed history, clinical examination and relevant investigations. Written consent was taken from the subjects those willing to participate. The subjects were selected by simple random sampling. The outcome measures were musculoskeletal assessment chart primarily studying range of motion, Pain and oedema. Procedure After the protocol and ethical clearance, the procedure was started. Subjects were selected with age group between 30 to 60 from post Chikungunya viral infected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The consent was taken from the selected subjects.Results: The obtained results showed a significant prevalence rate in all three components i.e. pain, ROM and oedema. Pain was found to be present in 81% of subjects, preceded with altered ROM. Presence of oedema was noted in smaller values. Oedema was absent in 43% of subjects. In that 32% subjects had grade 1oedema, 16% subjects had grade 2 oedema and remaining 9% had grade 3 oedema. Female subjects were found to have more profound impairments with greater pain levels and altered ROM.Conclusion: Musculoskeletal impairments like pain, stiffness, oedema, impairment in joint range of motion, are present post chikungunya viral infection. Female subjects were found to have more pain and impaired ROM than the male subjects.

Keywords: Chikungunya, ROM, Oedema, Pain, rheumatoid arthritis