Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common causes of disability worldwide, particularly affecting the lower back and knees. Military personnel are at greater risk due to the physically demanding nature of their duties. This study aimed to determine the frequency and characteristics of low back and knee musculoskeletal disorders based on clinical and radiographic findings among naval personnel of the First Maritime Region.
Method: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 217 naval personnel were evaluated using demographic and occupational questionnaires, physical examinations, and radiographic assessments. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 with descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square and Pearson correlation tests, at a significance level of p < 0.05.
Result: The mean age of participants was 35.9 ± 6.8 years, and mean BMI was 25.7 ± 3.2 kg/m². Musculoskeletal pain was reported by 50.7% of participants: 22.6% in the lower back, 12.9% in the knees, and 15.2% in both areas. The most frequent lumbar diagnoses were muscle spasm (16.6%) and disc herniation (11.1%), while knee osteoarthritis (5.1%) and soft tissue injuries (11.5%) were most common. Significant relationships were found between demographic variables (gender, marital status, education) and pain characteristics or treatment (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: MSDs of the lower back and knee are prevalent among naval personnel. Preventive ergonomic strategies, structured exercise programs, and early rehabilitation should be implemented to reduce disability and maintain operational readiness.