Prevalence Of Back Pain Among Food Delivery Riders In Kota Bharu, Kelantan: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The introduction of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and the current pandemic has increased the demand for food delivery services. However, riding motorcycles may pose the risk of experiencing musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of back pain among food delivery riders. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 39 riders in Kota Bharu. A modified and adapted questionnaire from Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess the musculoskeletal symptoms. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-Square Test. This study found that the highest one-year prevalence of whole body for the food delivery riders was lower back pain (59.0%), followed by neck pain (53.8%), shoulder pain (53.8%), and upper back pain (48.7%). Whereas for seven-days prevalence was led by both lower back pain and shoulder pain (59.0%, respectively). Classification of work and the delivery bag did show significant associations with lower back pain (p<0.05). Meanwhile lifting load and body bending were associated significantly with experiencing upper back pain (p<0.05). In conclusion, work-related characteristics had demonstrated significant associations with back pain. The riders should adopt a good posture while riding to prevent back pain. Measures should also be taken by both the management company and the rider, as to improve the working conditions of these delivery riders.