NECK AND SHOULDER SYMPTOMS AND LEISURE-TIME ACTIVITIES IN HIGH-SCHOOL-STUDENTS

There is a lot of evidence in the adult population to show that neck a nd shoulder symptoms are associated with static working postures. It h as also been suggested that dynamic load reveals neck and shoulder sym ptoms. The purpose of this study was to describe the occurrence of nec k and shoulder pain and its association with static and dynamic load i n Various types of leisure time activity in high school students. Seve n hundred eighteen students filled out a questionnaire concerning neck and shoulder pain, leisure time activities, and utilization of health services. The participants were classified into three groups accordin g to the severity of neck and shoulder symptoms, which was based on fr equency of symptoms. The girls had significantly more neck and shoulde r symptoms, and they sought medical care more often than the boys. The girls participating in sports involving dynamic use of the upper extr emities had significantly fewer symptoms than those having hobbies inv olving static postures of the upper limbs or those practicing other ty pes of physical activity.