Risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders: A study in the inner regions of Alagoas and Bahia

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) symptoms are associated with several risk factors. Only a few studies have evaluated this association in poorer regions of Brazil. Therefore, this study assessed the risk factors for lower limb WMSD symptoms in 420 workers (trade, education, industry, and health) from the inner regions of Alagoas and Bahia. Sociodemographic, biomechanical, psychosocial, and occupational factors were investigated, as well as pain symptoms in regions of the thighs, knees, legs, ankles, and feet, using adapted questionnaires, including the Job Content Questionnaire, Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire II, Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire, Nordic Questionnaire, and items associated with the work characteristics. Data were analyzed using ordinal logistic regression models. The most significant results showed that working with the lower limbs in uncomfortable positions (OR = [1.67; 3.50]) increased the risk of pain in all lower limb regions; the use of hands and fingers (OR = [2.69; 4.01]), and age (OR = [1.02; 1.03]) were associated with increased pain in the knee, leg, and ankle; body mass index (OR = [3.53]) was associated with increased pain in the foot; and the perceived meaning of work (OR = [0.75; 0.85]) and control over work (OR = [0.80; 0.84]) were associated with a reduced risk of pain in some regions. It was concluded that a greater number of psychosocial factors influence the development of WMSDs, but mechanical and individual factors have a more significant influence.