ASSOCIATION OF PAIN AND QUALITY OF SLEEP DUE TO CALF TIGHTNESS IN SECURITY GUARDS

Abstract

Prolonged standing is a common occupational requirement for security guards and may contribute to various musculoskeletal problems, including calf muscle tightness, lower limb pain, and disturbances in sleep quality. These issues can negatively affect physical performance, occupational efficiency, and overall quality of life. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted to determine the association between calf muscle tightness, pain intensity, and sleep quality among security guards. The study was carried out in different institutions, including colleges and banks, and involved 134 male security guards aged 30 to 50 years who performed standing duties for at least 8 hours daily. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Calf muscle tightness was assessed using the Silfverskiöld Test, pain intensity was measured through the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to examine the relationships among the study variables. The findings revealed a high prevalence of calf muscle tightness and musculoskeletal pain among participants, particularly in the lower leg region. Most participants reported poor sleep quality, suggesting that occupational demands may have a considerable impact on their physical and psychological well-being. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant moderate positive correlation between pain intensity and sleep disturbance (r = 0.589, p < 0.001), indicating that higher levels of pain were associated with poorer sleep quality. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing preventive strategies