Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire Research Articles

Effects of computer use on upper limb musculoskeletal disorders and function in academicians

Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the effects of academician’s demographic characteristics and computer usage habits on upper limb musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and function. Methods. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 100 academicians. Data were collected using questionnaires, which included the patient-rated wrist evaluation questionnaire – Turkish version (PRWE-T), the Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaire – Turkish version (CMDQ-T), the upper extremity functional index – Turkish version (UEFI-T), demographic characteristics and average daily computer usage time. Results. A low-level significant correlation was found between the age of the individuals and the CMDQ-T forearm (p = 0.044; r = 0.202) and CMDQ-T wrist (p = 0.001; r = 0.337) scores. Women had higher CMDQ-T neck scores and lower UEFI-T scores than men (p < 0.05). Academicians who used computers for 6 h a day or more had higher PRWE-T and CMDQ-T neck, shoulder, upper arm and forearm scores, and had a lower UEFI-T score (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Neck, shoulder, upper arm and forearm symptoms were higher and upper extremity function was impaired in academicians who used computers for 6 h a day or more. Besides, gender and age were associated with upper limb MSDs and function, but occupation duration did not affect those outcomes in academicians.

Effect of an online posture exercise program during the COVID-19 pandemic on students' musculoskeletal pain and quality of life.

Prolonged sitting and poor posture can contribute to musculoskeletal pain and have a negative effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among young adults. Any prolonged posture leads to static loading of soft tissues and causes discomfort. Seated posture leads to inactivity causing an accumulation of metabolites, accelerating disk degeneration and musculoskeletal pain. Regular exercise has major contributions to the prevention and treatment of some health problems such as musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to assess the impact of online posture exercises on musculoskeletal pain and health related quality of life among university students receiving distance education during the COVID-19pandemic. This randomized controlled trial involved 72students divided into intervention (n= 35) and control (n= 37) groups. The intervention group followed an 8-week online stretching and posture exercise program. Baseline and 8-week results were measured using the SF-36 QoL Questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Students spent an average of 5.4 ± 2.5hours daily at computers. While there was no difference between the scores of any region in the CMDQ in the control group, there was a decrease in the neck, right shoulder, left shoulder, waist, left upper leg, right lower leg, and left lower leg discomfort scores in the intervention group (p< 0.05). There was a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in the total score of SF-36 and the sub-dimensions of vitality and mental health (p< 0.05). The online posture exercise program led to notable reductions in musculoskeletal pain and improvements in QoL among university students. Examining the effectiveness of online exercise programs in different age groups is important for health benefits during quarantines.

Study of musculoskeletal disorders risk factors and discomfort in sculptors in the north of Mexico

BACKGROUND: The sculpting craft must adopt awkward postures that lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort (MD) and its associations with postural risk factors, demographics, and work characteristics among sculptors. They were determined the differences between MDs during the weeks of the study. METHODS: A longitudinal study was conducted; MD was investigated using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Posture was assessed using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment method (RULA). Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) models analyzed associations with different factors. ANOVA was used to test for differences in MD prevalence. RESULTS: The analysis included 585 responses by body region. The prevalence of MD was high in the lower and upper limbs among sculptors (67.6%), with the lower back, upper arm, neck, and knees being the four most affected regions. Gender (female) (OR = 2.15), marital status (married) (OR = 1.80), health risk (obesity), the dual of a secondary job (OR = 1.94), job stress (OR = 2.10), duration of work (OR = 2.01), and difficulty keeping up with work (OR = 2.00) were significant predictors contributing to the occurrence of MD in different body regions. Only shoulder MD prevalence showed significant differences between study weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Sculptors suffer from MD. Demographic and work characteristic factors influence MD prevalence. Postural training, improved adaptation of work organization, and intervention guidance on ergonomic risks may reduce the prevalence of MD and the risk of MSDs in this population.

Assessing Musculoskeletal Disorder Risks in an Automobile Part Manufacturing Factory: A Comparison Study of Biomechanical and Ergonomic Tools

Background: Various tools and methods are available to assess the risk of musculoskeletal injuries in occupational settings, each considering different assessment criteria. While these methods have been previously studied, further comparative investigations are still needed. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in workers performing various tasks using different ergonomic and biomechanical risk assessment tools and to compare the outcomes of these tools. Methods: This analytical and cross-sectional study was conducted in a sector of the SAIPA Automobile Part Manufacturing Factory in Iran. A total of 33 workers engaged in lifting, grinding, pushing, and lowering activities participated. Lifting activities involved handling parts weighing 36, 7.9, and 3.4 kg at three workstations. In total, six tasks were examined, and workers' discomfort levels were evaluated using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ). Fourteen biomechanical and ergonomic risk assessment tools were utilized and compared. Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient and Cohen's kappa agreement coefficient were applied to determine relationships between different tools and to match the measurement of risk levels, respectively. Additionally, the mean and standard deviation of the data were calculated. Results: There was a high positive correlation between the outcomes of three biomechanical tools [3D static strength prediction programTM (3DSSPP), hand-calculation back compressive force (HCBCF), and JACK], with 3DSSPP and HCBCF being interchangeable for estimating lumbar spine loads. Ergonomic assessment tools showed a suitable correlation in assessing load-carrying tasks. Manual handling assessment charts (MAC) had perfect agreement with National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and SNOOK with Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA). Among body posture evaluation methods, rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) and rapid entire body assessment (REBA) had the highest correlation. Lifting fatigue failure tool (LiFFT) correlated well with manual handling methods, and survival chance correlated better with body posture evaluation methods. Lowering activities were identified as the most hazardous. Conclusions: Ease of use and accuracy are key considerations when selecting biomechanical risk assessment tools. Experienced assessors can effectively utilize JACK, 3DSSPP, and HCBCF. The MAC and NIOSH, as well as RULA and REBA tools, are interchangeable. Selecting appropriate tools requires consideration of their limitations and advantages.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomics Risk Assessment among Sewing Machine Operators and Tailors

Background: Sewing machine operators and tailors in Faisalabad, Pakistan, frequently endure prolonged periods of sitting or standing, performing repetitive tasks that contribute to Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). This study aims to fill the research gap in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) and workstation evaluations within this group. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of MSDs and evaluate the ergonomic conditions of workstations among tailors and sewing machine operators in the local and textile sectors of Faisalabad. Methods: A cross-sectional study design utilized non-probability sampling to include 810 participants from both local tailor shops and textile factories. Data collection involved a self-structured questionnaire focusing on demographic and job-related factors, the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) to evaluate ergonomic risks. Results: High levels of discomfort were reported in the upper limbs, particularly the right and left forearms (3.40±0.97), and in the lower limbs, particularly the right knee (3.90±0.47). The mean RULA scores were 4.8±0.51 for textile workers and 4.9±0.53 for local tailors, indicating poor workstation setups. Additionally, CMDQ results showed significant associations between musculoskeletal discomfort and variables such as age, residence, marital status, lifestyle, and smoking habits. Conclusion: The study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among textile workers and tailors, particularly affecting the left foot and left knee of local tailors. The RULA scores highlight a high risk of musculoskeletal disorders, necessitating further investigations and modifications in the working environment.

Work posture risk comparison of RULA and REBA based on measures of assessment-score variability: A case study of the metal coating industry in Thailand

This study examines the work posture risk comparison of RULA and REBA based on measures of assessment-score variability. During the metal coating process, chemicals were frequently employed, necessitating a heightened level of caution among the employees. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ) revealed the manifestation of physical discomfort among employees. In this study, the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) and the rapid entire body assessment (REBA) were used to identify ergonomic concerns related to the work of employees in the black oxide coating department of a metal coating firm. The sensitivity of risk assessment between the two methods was investigated, considering the mean and variability of the assessment scores. Consideration was given to the diverse and crucial work positions of employees at each station, focusing exclusively on the standing working posture. In the black oxide coating section, there were 12 steps that 20 workers had to complete. Under the same working postures, the overall average RULA score was determined to be at a high-risk level, whereas the overall average REBA score was at a moderate-risk level. As a result, the RULA method had a greater capacity for risk warning than the REBA method. Levene's test was also applied to determine whether the variances of the risk scores computed using the two techniques were equal. The results of the analysis showed that the variances in the scores using the two methods were not significantly different.

Comparison of Ergonomic Assessment Results in the Automotive Polymer Industry: Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) Methods

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) encompass injuries to muscles, nerves, joints, and connective tissues, affecting the neck, back, and limbs. The polymer automotive industry, particularly in manufacturing automotive components using plastic injection tools, involves workers with diverse postures. Non-ergonomic postures can lead to muscle tension and health issues, emphasizing the importance of safety and ergonomics. This study employs the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) methods to assess working postures. In the production sector, the average RULA score is 3.8 (31.67%), indicating moderate risk and suggesting further investigation. Conversely, the non-production sector's average RULA score is 3.4 (28.33%), indicating a lower risk but still necessitating changes. CMDQ analysis on 12 respondents reveals posture variation. In the production sector, the average CMDQ score is 2.5 (20.83%), signaling moderate risk and advocating for further investigation. This study lays groundwork for downstream polymer industries to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety.

Ergonomic risks and problems of the musculoskeletal system for physiotherapists: comparison of employees in the fields of pediatric and adult care

ABSTRACT Objectives. The aim of this study is to compare the ergonomic risk levels, musculoskeletal complaints and quality of life of physiotherapists (PTs) according to their field of work. Methods. A total of 107 volunteer PTs participated in the study, whose information was recorded. Ergonomic risk levels were determined using rapid entire body assessment (REBA). Complaints about the musculoskeletal system of PTs were evaluated with the Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaire (CMDQ) and quality of life was evaluated by the Nottingham health profile. Results. PTs who worked with pediatric patients (Grouppediatric; n = 47) were younger (p<0.001). PTs who worked with adult patients (Groupadult; n = 60) had a higher daily number of patients (p<0.001). The REBA score did not make a difference between the groups (p = 0.379). The difference was found in the upper back region of the CMDQ (p<0.05). There was no difference between groups for quality of life (p>0.05). Conclusions. Grouppediatric may be working in ergonomically demanding positions, although there is no statistical difference. The injury sites of the musculoskeletal system can differ. However, the reflection of musculoskeletal system problems on quality of life does not show any difference between the groups of PTs.

The relationship between the level of postural stress, Musculoskeletal Disorders, and chronic fatigue: A case study in the dairy industry.

Dairy industry workers face numerous ergonomic risk factors in their workplace, including improper posture, manual material handling, and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Fewstudies have been conducted on the correlation of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue among workers in the dairy industry. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue in a dairy company. In this cross-sectional study, 260 male workers were included in the research based on specific inclusion criteria. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, Chalder Fatigue Scale, and a researcher-made demographic questionnaire were used to collect data. The posture of workers was evaluated using RULA and REBA software, and the evaluation of the manual lifting of loads was assessed using the WISHA lifting calculator. Finally, the collected data were entered into the SPSS software version 26.0 and analyzed. The findings revealed a significant statistical relationship between the level of postural stress and chronic fatigue and a significant positive correlation between MSDs and chronic fatigue. Furthermore, a statistically significant relationship was observed between MSDs, chronic fatigue, and ergonomics training experience. The results obtained in this study support the notion that high levels of postural stress and MSDs can produce an increase in chronic fatigue among workers, and lack of ergonomics training for workers can increase both MSDs and chronic fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out intervention measures in the field of ergonomics management in similar industries through the implementation of ergonomic intervention programs with a focus on proactive and preventive measures and the use of participatory ergonomic programs and educational demands assessment.

Musculoskeletal Pain Description in Adolescence with Internet Addiction: Community Engagement in Senior High School

Background: Some bad postures resulting from bad habits that had lasted since childhood, especially posture while accessing internet using gadget, might lead to some complications in adolescence.&#x0D; Aim: In this community engagement program, we tried to explore internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain proportions in some students.&#x0D; Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in a senior high school at Jonggol, West Java, in February 2023. Students were gathered to have an education class about good posture. Before the education session, we asked the students to explore whether they had internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain by filling out the Indonesian Internet Addiction Diagnostic Questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire.&#x0D; Results: Thirty-nine students were involved in this study. As many as 19 (48.7%) students have an internet addiction. More than 50% of the addicted students often have moderate-severe pain in their neck, back and right wrist and reported that the pain interferes with their daily activities.&#x0D; Conclusions: Almost half of students attending posture education class had internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain. A further study with a larger sample size needs to be conducted to show the correlation between internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain in adolescence and other factors that correlate with them.

Sinhala version of the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire: Cross-cultural adaptation and validation.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are highly prevalent among people who work in sedentary jobs. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) is a valid tool to assess WMSDs, but is not available in the local language of Sri Lanka (Sinhala). To cross-culturally adapt the original CMDQ from English to Sinhala and evaluate its psychometric properties. The linguistic and cultural adaptation of the CMDQ to the Sinhala (Si-CMDQ) language followed international guidelines. The adapted pre-version was tested for comprehensibility among 32 subjects from different educational and occupational backgrounds. The Content Validity Index (CVI) was computed with ratings from five experts. The questionnaire was validated further by 111 security guards employed at the university. The tool was validated with reference to the Numeric Rating Scale. Test-retest reliability was assessed at two time points one week apart and internal consistency was tested. The Si-CMDQ showed adequate cross-cultural, content and construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. The Kappa coefficient showed excellent agreement between NRS and Si-CMDQ frequency scale. Spearman's correlation coefficients showed a moderate to a strong significant positive correlation between NRS and the severity scale of Si-CMDQ. The Kappa values for test-retest reliability were moderate to excellent for the three scales of CMDQ. The internal consistency was high. The Si-CMDQ fulfilled the psychometric requirement for questionnaires. This tool will be beneficial to assess WMSDs among sedentary workers in different occupations in Sri Lanka.

Inertial Motion Capturing in Ergonomic Workplace Analysis: Assessing the Correlation between RULA, Upper-Body Posture Deviations and Musculoskeletal Discomfort

(1) Background: Mobile movement analysis systems, for example, those based on Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), enable digital real-time methods of collecting data in workplace ergonomics, but the relationship between observational method scores such as Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), upper-body posture, and their influence on musculoskeletal discomfort, has not yet been well investigated. This field study aimed to evaluate the relationship of these variables in two different target groups: production and office workers. (2) Methods: There were 64 subjects (44 men and 20 women) participating. Data collection was divided into two categories: (1) Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) (n = 64) and 3D stereophotogrammetric posture analysis (n = 58), and (2) Investigation of workload via IMU-based motion capture (MoCap) and the Borg CR-10 body map (n = 24). Correlation tests and regression analysis were performed using SPSS and MATLAB software to examine the relationship between the upper-body posture and RULA. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was applied to examine group differences. (3) Results: The findings did not support the authors’ hypothesis that posture risk at work significantly correlates with static upper-body posture and musculoskeletal discomfort. Pelvic tilt had a weak but significant influence on RULA. The data revealed interesting trends in physical exertion, musculoskeletal discomfort, and differences between production and office workers. However, the statistical analysis did not support this. Such approaches have the potential to enhance the accuracy of assessment outcomes and, in turn, provide a stronger foundation for enhancing ergonomic conditions.

Risk Assessment Of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Tailors In Vadodara City

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders have become more in recent decades. Primary causes being job environmentand working conditions. Musculoskeletal disorders can be defined by the impairment of bodily structuresand localized blood circulation caused primarily due to work or work environment. The tailoring industryof India is an unorganized sector and majority employees are from lower economic class. Hence despite of discomfort in working due to awkward posture and repetitive stress injury they are compelled to work bearing the unfavourable circumstances.Objectives: 1) To see the prevalence of risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in tailors by using Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire.2) To see the prevalence of risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in tailors by using REBA. Method: A descriptive community based cross sectional study was conducted in Vadodara city, Gujarat fromDecember 2022 to May 2023. 50 tailors were taken as subjects for the study according to inclusion and exclusion criteria from Vadodara city. Tailors were chosen by convenient and purposive sampling and were interviewed and assessed by approaching them at their work place and CMDQ and REBA scales were filled.Results: As per statistical analysis 14% were suffering from mild discomfort, 54% were suffering from moderate discomfort, whereas 32% complained of severe discomfort.Conclusion: A multidirectional approach including appropriate technique in terms of operators, posture andergonomically.

Healthy Nutrition Attitude, Sleep Quality and Musculoskeletal Disorders in University Students During Covid-19 Pandemic

This study aims to college students' healthy nutrition attitude, sleep status, and musculoskeletal disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic.&#x0D; In total, 165 university students participated in this research. The students filled out the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire. The attitude toward healthy eating of 34 (20.6%) students was found to be moderate, 100 (60.6%) high, and 31 (18.8%) very high. There was no meaningful difference between groups according to having COVID-19 disease (p&gt;0.05). Among the participants, 43 (26.06%) students were found to be good and 122 (73.94%) to be poor in terms of sleep quality. The global PSQI and sleep duration subgroup scores of those who had COVID-19 were statistically higher (p=0.010 and 0.043, respectively). The five regions with the most musculoskeletal symptoms were the upper back (78.18%), lower back (70.91%), neck (69.09%), right shoulder (55.76%) and left shoulder (49.09%). Significant differences were observed in the scores of the right wrist (p=0.009), left wrist (p=0.007), right lower leg (p=0.024), left lower leg (p=0.026), right foot (p=0.001), and left foot (p=0.009). The COVID-19 pandemic partially affected university students in terms of healthy eating attitudes and, to a greater extent, in terms of sleep and musculoskeletal disorders.

Correlational study of ergonomic knowledge and level of MSK discomfort during online classes of 1st–4th year UST-CRS physical therapy students: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionThe abrupt transition of the mode of learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an increase in complaints of musculoskeletal (MSK) discomfort among students in Higher Education Institutions (HEI)....

Yoga for musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, perceived stress, and quality of sleep in industry workers: a randomized controlled trial.

Work-related musculoskeletal pain and discomfort are due to repetitive, unnatural, continuous movements and postures. Yoga therapy is beneficial for pain and disability in occupational settings. The current study aims to investigate the effect of yoga on musculoskeletal pain, stress, and sleep quality among industry workers. The study was conducted as a parallel randomized controlled open-label trial. An allocation ratio of 1:1 was followed for randomization. A health survey was used to recruit 90 male workers in machinery manufacturing industries from Bengaluru. A specially designed yoga module was administered five days a week for eight weeks to yoga group. The waitlisted control group received lifestyle suggestions. Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were administered at baseline, at the fourth week and eighth weeks. Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance (RM-ANOVA) was conducted to elicit the group*time interactions. Ninety participants (Yoga = 45, Control = 45) with age 40.57 ± 6.85 were randomized. Significant interactions were found in CMDQ, VAS, PSS and PSQI scores. Further, between group comparison demonstrate significant difference between the groups at the end of 8weeks for CMDQ, VAS and PSS scores. Yoga can be used to reduce musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, perceived stress and improve sleep quality among industry workers. CTRI/2022/03/040894.

Relationship Between Ergonomic Awareness and Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Staff Nurses in Oman: An Observational Study.

To detect the level of ergonomic awareness related to work-related musculoskeletal disorders among 200 staff nurses in a tertiary hospital. The additional objective was to study the relationship of such awareness with the prevalence of these disorders. A group of 25-45-year-old staff nurses and a body mass index of ≤ 30 kg/m2, with at least one year working experience were randomly selected from different wards of the Royal Hospital, Muscat. The study excluded nurses who were on leave and those who had sustained traffic accidents or sports injuries in the preceding year. Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was used to measure the work-related musculoskeletal disorders experienced by the nurses. A second questionnaire was administered to measure their ergonomic awareness. The data was statistically analyzed. Correlations were established by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (ρ). The participants were 200 staff nurses (male = 30 male, female = 170). Analysis of the ergonomics awareness construct indicated 'agreement' as an overall response with a mean of 3.2±0.6, indicating fair ergonomic awareness. For CMDQ, 50.3% reported discomfort in the low back region, 15.0% in the neck, and 6.9% in the right lower leg. The left wrist, left forearm, and right upper arm had the least reported discomfort (< 1.0%). The correlation between ergonomic awareness and working ability was weakly positive, yet statistically significant (ρ = 0.210; p = 0.003). Correlations were not statistically significant between ergonomic awareness and discomfort (ρ = -0.031; p = 0.664) and between ergonomic awareness and total frequency (ρ = 0.109; p = 0.123). There is a strong need to develop practical ergonomic awareness among nursing staff for a sustainable and safe work environment.

Ergonomic Risk Assessment of Nigerian Teaching Personnel: Cases of a Secondary School and a Tertiary Institution in Ibadan, Nigeria

Educators often spend a lot of time carrying out repetitive motions of the upper limbs and prolonged standing on a daily basis, exposing them to hours of ergonomic risks. This is due to awkward postures, caused by significant deviation of some major body members from the normal neutral positions. Poor ergonomics can lead to various Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), which are of serious concern for workplace safety, especially in jobs that require repetitive motions. It thus became necessary to assess the stress level associated with teaching postures and the prevalent musculoskeletal discomfort in different parts of the body. In this study, ergonomic assessment of teaching personnel at an International Secondary School and University of Ibadan, Nigeria was conducted to determine the prevalent musculoskeletal discomfort in different parts of the body. The study utilised two ergonomic assessment tools- Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) to gather qualitative and quantitative data about posture and motions during teaching activities. It was discovered that both university lecturers and secondary school teachers in Nigeria face significant ergonomic risks, primarily in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Further comparison revealed that educators in the secondary school experienced higher severity of musculoskeletal discomfort and exposure to MSD risks, compared to those in the tertiary institution. The educators of the International School had an average REBA score of 4.57, while those at the University of Ibadan had a score of 3.73. These scores indicated a medium level of MSD risk for both groups, but the educators of the International School were at a higher risk. On comparing the CMDQ outcome, it was discovered that there were major differences in the regions where discomforts were reported. While secondary school revealed higher average scores in the neck, right shoulder, and left shoulder regions, and with the neck region having a mean score of 7.003; right shoulder having a mean score of 4.550; and left shoulder having a mean score of 1.600; outcome from University of Ibadan revealed higher mean scores in the lower back and left wrist regions, with the lower back region having a mean score of 7.450 and left wrist region having a mean score of 1.030. These scores indicated a mild to moderate level of discomfort for both groups, with each facing major discomfort in unique body regions. This research highlights the significance of ergonomic evaluation and the combination of quantitative and qualitative data to identify potential interventions.

The relationship between kinesiophobia and physical activity levels, gestational weight gain, and musculoskeletal pain in pregnant women

ABSTRACT The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the effect of kinesiophobia on musculoskeletal pain, physical activity levels, and gestational weight gain in pregnant women. One hundred and sixty-three pregnant women participated in the study by completing a personal characteristics information form along with the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire. The results showed a weak negative correlation between total physical activity scores and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia scores (p = .005). Excessive gestational weight gain was associated with a 1.27-fold increase in kinesiophobia and a 1.16-fold increase in musculoskeletal pain compared to adequate weight gain (p < .001). Those with musculoskeletal pain had significantly higher kinesiophobia scores than those without musculoskeletal pain (p = .012). In the pregnant women in this study, an increase in kinesiophobia was associated with a decrease in physical activity. Sedentary and light-intensity activities prevailed among the pregnant women in the study. Musculoskeletal pain and kinesiophobia were associated with excessive weight gain, and those with pain had higher levels of kinesiophobia. Therefore, during pregnancy follow-ups, health professionals should evaluate pregnant women for kinesiophobia, pain, physical activity status, and weight gain.

Correlates of musculoskeletal pain and kinesiophobia in older adults with heart failure: A structural equation model

The study aimed to study the influence of musculoskeletal pain on kinesiophobia in patients with heart failure. This cross-sectional study recruited 107 heart failure patients aged 73.18±12.68 years (57% men) from an outpatient setting. Participants self-reported pain using the Musculoskeletal System Assessment Inventory and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire. Kinesiophobia was assessed with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia-11. About 62% reported musculoskeletal pain, with knees (16.8%) and lower back (12.%) being the most painful locations. About 31% reported moderate levels and 24% indicated high levels of kinesiophobia. There were positive and significant associations between the indicators of pain and kinesiophobia. Results showed an adequate structural equation model fit to the data with musculoskeletal pain factors explaining 22.09% of the variance in kinesiophobia. Assessment of kinesiophobia in patients with heart failure with musculoskeletal pain is essential to improve self-care and overall quality of life.