Combined effects of Stretching and Ergonomic Advice in Computer Professionals on the Incidence of Upper Limb Disorders

Abstract

Introduction: Work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs) continue to be problematic as the use of keyboard and mouse based work dominates the 21st century workforce. Musculoskeletal complaints in the neck and upper extremity amongst computer professionals are showing an increasing trend. Changes in work practice have led to the growing problem of work related upper limb disorders. Purpose of study: Previous studies have shown the effects of ergonomics and stretching separately on these work related upper limb disorders but none of the study so far has evaluated the combined effects of stretching and ergonomic interventions. Materials and method: 90 subjects performing computer work for at least 20 hours per week with minimum four hours continuously per day from last two years were randomly divided into three groups. In group A, subjects received hydrocollator pack, advice on ergonomics and work style modifications. In group B, subjects received same intervention as in group A with additional stretching of upper fibres of trapezius muscle and levator scapulae muscle. And group C was control group and was provided only hot packs. Pre-test and Post-test values were collected by using standard goniometer as an outcome measure. Results: After analyzing the results, significant improvement was found in all the three groups but both statistically and clinically, maximum improvement was found in group B. Conclusion: It is recommended that patients with chronic neck disability associated with occupation will be given combination of stretching and ergonomic interventions along with other conservative treatments.