Relationship Between Self-reported Symptoms of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Health Related Quality of Life

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the relationship between symptoms of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and health-related, quality of life (QoL). Methods: WMSDs symptoms were measured by a self-assessed questionnaire on musculoskeletal disorders symptoms and health-related QoL was measured by SF-36. Analysis of variance and logistic regression were used to analyze the relationship between WMSDs and health-related QoL. Results: The prevalence of WMSDs was 64.6% in the upper limbs, 44.0% in the low back, and 39.6% in the lower limbs. Subjects with musculoskeletal symptoms had significantly lower scores on all SF-36 dimensions than those without symptoms among all body parts. Compared with the control, the case's odds ratio was higher in all SF-36 dimensions, especially for physical functioning. Conclusions: WMSDs have a negative effect on health-related QoL. The essential prevention of WMSDs requires intervention for health promotion in manufacturing workers.