Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Pain among Beauty Service Employees: An Observational Survey

Abstract

Abstract Background and Purpose: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) include a variety of inflammatory illnesses and injuries that cause musculoskeletal pain as a result of work. Beauty service workers, including beauticians, cosmetologists, hairdressers, and hairstylists, are more prone to musculoskeletal pain due to repetitive movements and poor ergonomics. This observational study was designed to better understand WMSDs in beauty service employees. Materials and Methods: Demographic data, including age, gender, and work experience, were collected, and the Nordic Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) was employed to record musculoskeletal pain, and the capacity to perform routine activities during the past 7 days and 12 months. These data were collected offline (door-to-door). Approximately, 400 questionnaires were administered, however, only 345 (86.25%) were fully completed. The data obtained from participants were analyzed using descriptive statistics and frequency distributions. Furthermore, the Chi-square test was utilized to investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics and musculoskeletal pain. Results: The results revealed that almost all of the beauty service workers experienced lower back stiffness that negatively impacted their job performance. Following low back pain, knee pain (76.5%), neck discomfort (70.1%), upper back pain (60.3%), shoulder pain (50.7%), and wrist pain (40.6%) were found to be the most prevalent. A significant correlation was found between musculoskeletal pain and age (χ2 = 204.643; P < 0.000), gender (χ2 = 9.417; P < 0.02), and work experience (χ2 = 38.333; P < 0.000). According to the NPQ, during the past 7 days, the most significant discomfort was reported in the elbows (χ2 = 259.133; P < 0.000), and ankles and feet (χ2 = 225.626; P < 0.000). Whereas, in the past 12 months, the most severe pain was reported in hips/thighs (χ2 = 222.403; P < 0.000) and ankles/feet (χ2 = 222.403; P < 0.000). Pain in the lower back was the most common reason reported by workers for the inability to carry out work-related activities during the previous 12 months. Conclusion: This study concludes that a large percentage of beauty service professionals are prone to WMSDs, which consequently has a significant impact on their ability to carry out their work. Low back pain, followed by knee pain, was the most prevalent WMSD among beauty professionals.