Physiological Effects of Prolonged Standing on Musculoskeletal Health Among Market Traders in Onitsha South, Anambra State, South East Nigeria

Background: Prolonged occupational standing is associated with musculoskeletal discomfort, venous insufficiency, and postural fatigue. Market traders in Onitsha South, Anambra State, routinely stand for 8 to 12 hours daily on hard concrete surfaces without adequate ergonomic support. The physiological musculoskeletal burden in this occupational group has not been systematically evaluated in South East Nigeria. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of lower extremity musculoskeletal pain, leg circumference changes as a proxy for venous oedema, and perceived fatigue scores among market traders compared with seated office workers in Onitsha. Methods: One hundred traders and fifty office workers will be recruited. Lower extremity girth measurements at the ankle and mid-calf will be taken at the beginning and end of the work day using a standardised tape measure. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale will assess pain intensity at the lower back, knees, and feet. The Fatigue Severity Scale will capture perceived fatigue. Independent t-tests and chi-square tests will be applied. Expected Outcomes: Traders are anticipated to demonstrate significantly greater end-of-day ankle circumference increases and higher pain and fatigue scores compared to office workers, with years of trading service predicting symptom severity. Conclusion: Findings will advocate for ergonomic improvement interventions and occupational health awareness programmes among informal market workers in Nigeria. Keywords: prolonged standing, musculoskeletal pain, venous oedema, market traders, Anambra.