Rehabilitation management of victims after Al Haouz Earthquake in Morocco

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the injuries that occurred during the earthquake, and to identify the rehabilitation needs of injured victims immediately after a major earthquake, and to determine their future rehabilitation needs

Methods: It was an observational cross sectional descriptive study. Data from this study were collected through handwritten files and hospital record system in Agadir and Taroudant between September and October of 2023. All patients hospitalized at Agadir and Taroudant hospitals who were seen by the physical medicine and rehabilitation team were included in this study. We did not have any exclusion criteria. We used a questionnaire containing information about the injuries incurred, treatments received, rehabilitation needs, and occupational therapy requirements, as well as the necessary technical aids and equipment. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. All statistical analysis was performed using JAMOVI software.

Results: Lower limb fractures and general injuries were the most found among our sample with percentages of 22.8% and 20.3% respectively, followed by pelvic fractures with 17.1%, only 9.8% had upper limb fractures. Physical therapy was required by 85.4% of patients, while 9.8% needed occupational therapy. There were high levels of need for assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, arm slings, and corsets.

Conclusion: Early rehabilitation in hospitals is in great demand, and there is a subsequent need for ongoing rehabilitation services at home and in the community. This is especially crucial for injured survivors who are returning to villages with scarce resources.