Abstract
The growing incidence of occupational musculoskeletal disorders gives cause for concern about the effectiveness of traditional awareness programmes in preventing such problems. Overseas there has been a move towards evaluating work-related factors in an attempt to deal with complaints at their source. This paper outlines the hypothesis that postural constraint, as a result of work design, contributes towards muscular fatigue which is accompanied by an increased likelihood of developing chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Methods of studying the problem and measures used to improve the situation are discussed.
Highlights
Musculoskeletal disorders at the workplace appear to be increasing[1], and to judge from the explosion of publications on the subject in the last ten years or so, the problem is beginning to be taken seriously
Terms like “Tension Myalgia”, “Repetitive Strain In jury”, and “Occupational Cervicobrachial Syndrome” all refer to similar problems affecting such workers[15]
One of the main aims of research in this area is to examine the epidemiology of musculoskeletal disorders and derive guidelines for preventing them
Summary
Musculoskeletal disorders at the workplace appear to be increasing[1], and to judge from the explosion of publications on the subject in the last ten years or so, the problem is beginning to be taken seriously. A work surface too high for the worker, may cause postural strain and result in localised pain If this situation is not changed there is a risk of developing a neck problem. It is significant that levels of static contraction near or above 20% of MVC are reached during keyboard work in the muscles of the upper body and limbs, when the arms are unsupported[13] In this way non-maximal pro tracted isometric contractions typical of constrained postures may lead to pain in the short term, but eventually to disease due to alterations of the soft tissues. Epidemiological studies have focused on the high incidence of neck and upper limb disorders among office workers This seems to be in fluenced by the automation of office tasks and higher speeds made possible by computerisation. Terms like “Tension Myalgia”, “Repetitive Strain In jury”, and “Occupational Cervicobrachial Syndrome” all refer to similar problems affecting such workers[15]
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