Abstract
Background: There is a lack of available descriptive studies pertaining to demographic and disease profiles of chiropractic patients in Botswana. Aim: This study investigated the demographic and epidemiological characteristics of patients presenting with musculoskeletal pain at World Spine Care (WSC) clinics located in Shoshong and Mahalapye District Hospital from 01 April 2016 to 31 August 2019 with the objective of producing a demographic, disease and treatment profile for this specified period. Method: Extraction and verification of data from existing patient files occurred. Such data included demographic characteristics, the presenting complaint, comorbid conditions as well as type and frequency of treatment and referrals out. SPSS® provided descriptive statistics to determine the relationships present between the MSK complaint and the demographics of the patients. Results: Female patients were the majority with an average age of 51 years. The level of education, and dominant activity of the patients were affected by the clinic location. An average of one comorbid condition per patient (SD±1.11), most common comorbidities were Hypertension and HIV/AIDS (HIV/AIDS is two stages of an immune-compromised state, the presence of the virus was the criteria). Main MSK complaints were lower back, extremity, and upper/mid back pain. An average of 5 treatments (SD±3.32) performed, commonly with soft tissue therapy, home exercises, and spinal manipulation therapy. Significant statistical relationships were found when comparing the urban and rural clinics. Conclusion: These results provide WSC with quantifiable information that can support further engagement with the community and improve health care by better understanding these specific communities.
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)