Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding rhomboid muscle spasms (RMS) among adults in the Tabuk region of Saudi Arabia, identify perceptions of its significance and impact, evaluate management and prevention behaviors, and examine associations between demographic factors and KAP levels.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults residing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. A validated bilingual (Arabic and English) online questionnaire assessed RMS-related KAP. Non-healthcare adults (aged 18 years and above) were included, and 457 participants completed the survey.
Results: Participants were predominantly male (73.3%) with a mean age of 28.4 years, and most held university degrees (78.3%). Knowledge levels were moderate (mean 70.4%), with 79% achieving at least two correct responses. Attitude were generally positive, as 61.7% believed RMS is preventable and 77% viewed it as mildly to moderately dangerous; however, only 57.3% prioritized medical consultation. Practices favored self-management, with massage (48.6%), rest (38.7%), and stretching (37.9%) being the most common methods, while physiotherapy was underutilized (12.5%). No demographic predictors, including age, gender, or educational level, had a significant influence on knowledge scores. Treatment satisfaction was high (77.7%), whereas evidence-based stress management techniques were used by only 34.1%.
Conclusion: The Tabuk population demonstrated moderate knowledge, reasonable attitude, and predominantly self-directed practice concerning RMS. The absence of demographic predictors suggested that educational interventions should target a broader community rather than specific subgroups. Promoting awareness of evidence-based approaches, particularly physiotherapy and stress management, might enhance musculoskeletal health and reduce recurrence of RMS.

Key words: Knowledge, attitude, practice, rhomboid muscle spasms, Saudi Arabia.