Article Sidebar
Published:
Oct 5, 2023Keywords:
Article Details
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
(i) AJER is an open-access journal. This means that all content is freely available to all. The author retains the copyrights associated with their work within AJER’s policy framework.
(ii) All articles can be accessed freely without any limitations of use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium so long as they are expressly cited.
(iii) The use of general descriptive names, trade names, trademarks, and so forth in this publication, even if not specifically identified, may not mean that these names are not protected by the relevant laws and regulations in their respective countries.
(iv) The publisher believes that all information is true and accurate at the time of going to press. In this regard, the authors, editors, and publishers cannot accept any legal responsibility for any errors, typos or omissions that may be made. There is thus no warranty for the materials contained in the articles.
Main Article Content
Factors Influencing the Management of Musculoskeletal Pain among Children with Sickle Cell Disease in Western Kenya
Roselyne Asiko Abwalaba
Fabian Esamai
John Okoth
Abstract
Musculoskeletal pain (MSK) is a common and often distressing symptom among children diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD). Despite the recurrent and often severe pain episodes these children endure, there has been limited research into the factors that influence the management of this pain. This study sought to delve into the various factors that impact the management of MSK pain in children with SCD in Western Kenya. It took a comprehensive approach, considering psychological, economic, sociocultural, individual, nutritional, environmental, and hospital-related factors. To gather insights, caregivers of 176 children with musculoskeletal pain associated with SCD were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring themes, and a codebook was developed based on findings from the literature and emerging themes. The interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, ensuring that all necessary data was collected. The results of the study revealed seven key themes that significantly influenced the management of musculoskeletal pain in these children. These themes included psychological factors, economic constraints, sociocultural beliefs, individual health status, nutritional challenges, environmental triggers, and healthcare system-related factors. Caregivers often grappled with psychological distress, financial strain, and social stigmatization. Individual factors, such as compromised immune status, played a crucial role in the frequency and severity of pain episodes. Furthermore, inadequate access to nutritious food exacerbated musculoskeletal pain. Additionally, changing weather conditions and previous negative experiences with healthcare facilities hindered effective pain management. In light of these findings, the study underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach to address these challenges. This includes providing psychosocial support, financial assistance, community awareness campaigns, improved healthcare services, education on proper nutrition, climate-related support, and healthcare worker training to better manage MSK pain in children with SCD.
