Injury and Pain Among a War-affected Population in Mitrovicë district of Kosovo (II): Functional Assessment of Victims

Background: To investigate the nutritional status, handgrip strength and standing balance of victims exposed to massive violence in order to develop an evidence-based rehabilitation programme in a disturbed area of Kosovo. Methods: 63 male and 62 female victims were recruited from a household survey (the result is presented in the Part I) for a detailed study. Interviews and physical examinations provided information about traumatic experiences, injuries, pain frequency and intensity. Height, weight, handgrip strength and standing balance performance were measured. To establish reference value, healthy controls were recruited for the same measurements.

Results: 50% reported at least two injury locations. 70% had moderate or severe pain and 92% reported consistent or periodic pains within the previous two weeks. Only 10% of the victims were in paid employment. 80% experienced at least eight types of emotional disturbances and many had low scores for emotional well-being.

High proportion of victims was overweight or obese while there was a significant difference in height between victims and control groups. The victims showed marked decline in handgrip strength and only 19 victims were able to stand on one leg for 30 seconds. The victims who were employed or had a higher education level, who did not take anti-depressant or anxiety drugs and had better emotional well-being or no pain complaints showed better handgrip strength and standing balance.

Conclusions: The results showed the difference in nutritional status between victims and control group. Reduced physical capacity in handgrip strength and standing balance was shown among the victims.