The Effect of Functional Capacity Related Ergonomic Risk Factors on Quality of Life of People with Physical Disability

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ergonomic risk factors and the problems of functional capacity and their effect on quality of life of people with physical disability. Material and Method: 52 people with physical disability were assessed. Demographical properties, medical and working history have been obtained. Ergonomic risk factors have been analyzed with Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and General Ergonomic Risk Analysis Checklist. Muscles strength, pinch strength, grip strength, lifting strength were measured at J-TECH computerized functional capacity assessment unit. Quality of life was assessed by SF-36 Health Survey. Results have been correlated by Spearman correlation test. Results: 12 women and 40 men included in the study whose average age is 37.15± 9.66. Most of the participants have been found to work at high risk postures and this give rise to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. High risk at work areas has been observed to be related to some parameters of quality of life. When compared with quality of life which is investigated by SF-36 Health Survey, general health status perception is found to be related by many risk factors (p< 0.05). In addition to, general health perception is found to be affected by social function as much as physical function. The importance of pinch strength, grip strength, lifting strength and upper extremity strength in perception of quality of life has been shown. Relationship has been occurred between fine motor function and also lifting and grip strength and general health status perception (p< 0.05). The work of participants including fine motor movements has been found to affect the perception of general health, physical role and energy/ vitality. Conclusion: The results show that projects for increasing productivity and satisfaction of people with physical disability at work should be done and increasing awareness of the employers about functional capacity related ergonomic risk factors is important.