Musculoskeletal injuries in the military: A systematic review

Eskafi, Hooman; Masoumi, Shahrzad; Zarei, Hamed

doi:10.22034/27.3.81

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Volume 27, Issue 3 (10-2025)

EBNESINA 2025, 27(3): 81-95

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Musculoskeletal injuries in the military: A systematic review

Hooman Eskafi

, Shahrzad Masoumi

, Hamed Zarei ^*

University of Guilan , zareei.h@yahoo.com

Abstract: (169 Views)

Background and aims: Musculoskeletal injuries are recognized as one of the major challenges among military personnel, having significant impacts on their health, performance, and physical fitness. This study aimed to review existing literature on musculoskeletal injuries in military populations, identifying contributing factors to inform ergonomic improvements and reduce associated costs.
Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Primary data were obtained from PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science, covering publications through October 9, 2025. Included studies were peer‑reviewed articles in English or Persian that specifically addressed musculoskeletal injuries among military personnel.
Results: After screening, 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. This review analyzed trends, risk factors, and preventive strategies reported in the literature. Findings indicate higher injury incidence among women and newly enlisted personnel, and suggest that targeted exercise programs can reduce risk.
Conclusion: Recent research has shifted toward risk‑prediction models and evidence‑based interventions, but psychological factors remain understudied and more comprehensive research is needed. The emphasis on overuse and acute lower‑extremity injuries underscores the need for effective prevention and rehabilitation programs. Future work should include more diverse populations and randomized controlled trials.

Keywords: cumulative trauma disorders, military personnel, prevention

Full-Text [PDF 1658 kb] (94 Downloads) | | Extended Abstract (HTML) (82 Views)

Type of Study: Review | Subject: Military Medicine
Received: 2025/10/19 | Revised: 2025/11/5 | Accepted: 2025/11/13 | Published: 2025/11/22

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Eskafi H, Masoumi S, Zarei H. Musculoskeletal injuries in the military: A systematic review. EBNESINA 2025; 27 (3) :81-95
URL: http://ebnesina.ajaums.ac.ir/article-1-1423-en.html

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