A Pilot Study On Effect Of Squatting On Lower Limb Peripheral Vascular Disease

Abstract

Context: Lower limb arterial disorders are common causes of morbidity. It is affected by various factors like age, hypertension and diabetes. It is common in lower socioeconomic strata. This pilot study is done to know the effect of squatting position, which is commonly found during agricultural and various other occupations. Aim : To study the effect of Squatting in patients with established Arterial Disorders of Lower limbs compared to normal persons. Methods and Material: Patients with lower limb arterial disorders(cases) and normal persons(controls),10 each were made to squat and asked about symptoms, numbness and pain. Peripheral pulses were examined in both standing and squatting position. Results were confirmed by Doppler USG. Results: Controls complained of numbness after an average of 20 minutes. Blood flow was absent during squatting. Cases complained of numbness after an average of 2 minutes and developed pain in the involved limb after an average of 6 minutes. They were not able to squat after 15 minutes. Conclusions: Squatting worsens the disease in patients with lower limb arterial disorders hence should be avoided even if it is for small duration. INTRODUCTION Arterial disorders are one of the common causes of mortality and morbidity in developing as well as developed countries. The prevalence of peripheral vascular diseases is about 7 to 9%. Prevalence increases to 12% to 16% after the age of 65 years. It includes variety of disorders which usually end in atherosclerotic phenomenon of vessels. It is influenced by various factors which includes smoking, age, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus etc..... In India, its prevalence is increasing due to increased life expectancy, increased tobacco smoking and increased prevalence of diabetes. In India, prevalence is same with people of both high and low socio-economic strata. Does squatting temporarily worsen lower limb ischemia? Main occupation of rural India is agricultural works which demands continuous squatting posture. Some other occupations which require squatting are carpentry, housemaid work and fabrication and construction works etc... More than that, only about 5% of Indians may have access to western commode. All these result in people assuming squatting position for some duration everyday. Does this have any effect in patients of lower limb arterial disorders? This study is a pilot study to assess the effect of squatting on general and at risk population.