Ergonomic Modifications Research Articles

Postural and ergonomic analysis of reading habits in elderly adults: a case study

Introduction: Proper posture is essential for preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and ergonomic problems in elderly adults. This study aims to analyze the reading posture of elderly residents in the Esposos Bishara seniors’ residence, located in Tachina Parish, Esmeraldas Canton, Ecuador. Methods: A quantitative methodology was employed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method to evaluate the reading postures of twelve elderly individuals aged between 63 and 99 years. Data were collected in designated reading spaces within the asylum. Results: The analysis revealed that the elderly participants exhibited medium to low risks of developing MSDs and ergonomic problems during reading activities. The predominant risk factors included neck flexion and prolonged static postures. Discussion: These findings align with existing literature that highlights the importance of ergonomic interventions in reducing MSD and ergonomic risks among elderly adults. The study underscores the need for ergonomic adjustments in reading environments to enhance postural health. Conclusion: The study concludes that while the risk levels are not alarmingly high, ergonomic modifications are necessary to mitigate potential MSDs in elderly readers. Future research should explore broader populations and varying reading environments.

Functional Disability Due to Chronic Low Back Pain in the Geriatric Population of a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is one of the painful and disabling conditions affecting the young as well as the geriatric population. There is a limited body of research to find out the impact of CLBP and functional disability on geriatric adults in the Indian region. Aim This study aims to determine the prevalence of functional disability due to CLBP in the geriatric population and to investigate the correlation between functional disability due to CLBP and other sociodemographic factors. Methodology A total of 157 geriatric adults were enrolled in the study, fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Basic sociodemographic data, along with a clinical-radiological examination, was recorded. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), the Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire, and the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale were used as study tools. Summary measures (frequency, mean, median, etc.) are calculated according to the level of measurement of variables. The point prevalence of functional disability due to CLBP in the geriatric population, along with 95% confidence intervals, has been calculated. The prevalence estimates were estimated and calculated with SD variables using a t-test, chi-square test, or Fisher's exact test under bivariate analysis. The linear/logistic regression analysis was used to control for the effects of covariates. A significance level of 5% was set for all analyses due to the exploratory nature of the study. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. Results According to the Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire, 29% (N = 46) of the study geriatric participants had a severe disability, 45% (N = 70) had a moderate disability, and 26% (N = 41) had a mild disability. According to the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, 34% (N = 53) had scored more than 50, and 66% (N = 104) had scored less than 50. Statistically significant correlations have been found between the level of functional disability and intensity of pain (NPRS score), gender, associated illness, current and past occupation, and clinical diagnosis of CLBP (p < 0.05). Conclusion The prevalence of functional disability due to CLBP is higher in the geriatric population. It is associated with many influencing sociodemographic factors like gender, occupation, associated musculoskeletal illness, the intensity of low back pain, and clinico-radiological diagnosis. Early identification and timely interventions to reduce functional disability due to CLBP and associated risk factors are the need of the hour. Regular back muscle exercises, ergonomic modifications, and modification of activities of daily life are recommended to prevent functional disability due to CLBP.

A Singal Case Studyon Coccygodynia

Pain in the coccyx region is known as coccydynia or coccygodynia. Coccygeal pain has been documented since the 16th century, according to Simpson, coccygeal pain has been recognised for hundreds of years, treating it can be challenging and occasionally contentious due to the complex nature of coccygeal pain. Its genesis is influenced by numerous physiological and psychological factors. With or without conservative treatment, most occurrences of coccydynia recover within weeks to months, but in a small number of people, the pain can last a long time and be incapacitating. Female gender and obesity have been linked to an increased chance of acquiring the condition. The anatomy, physiology, diagnosis and therapy of coccydynia are briefly discussed in this Study. For individuals with intractable coccyx discomfort, a multidisciplinary strategy including physical therapy, ergonomic modifications, drugs, injections, and potentially psychotherapy has the best chance of recovery. A 26 years old Female patient came in OPD with Symptoms of Pain and tenderness in coccyx region, aggravated with sitting position. In past history a patient is fall down from vehicle in direct vertical position, at this incidous mild discomfort in lower back region, after that gradually increase pain in coccyx region within two days. Patient could not able to seat proper and pain remain constant. So, she came to Govt. Akhandanand Hospital for ayurvedic treatment.The patient was treated with ayurvedic medicines Yogaraj Guggulu, Dashmoolkwath, Tab.bocomo and advise to take sitz bath with luke warm water and use wedge shape cushion on sitting position. The patient was advised to follow up initially after 7 days and later after every 15thdays. After 7 days there were mild pain and no tenderness. After that pain gradually decrease. The pain was completely gone on the third follow up and no any other complaints related to coccydynia.

Exploring the Impact of Office Syndrome on Employee Productivity: A Literature Review

Introduction: Physiotherapy helps employees prevent injuries at work by improving workspaces and everyday routines, with a focus on acoustics and body mechanics. Working in a situation where every employee is aware of their individual physical needs, understands how to improve their posture, and takes regular pauses to stretch out decreases the likelihood of accidents while increasing productivity. Aim: To explore the impact of office syndrome on employee productivity. Materials and Methods: A total of twenty articles were reviewed in this narrative review. Twenty publications were evaluated, including 8 reviews, 2 experimental studies, 3 observational studies, 5 crosssectional studies, and 2 surveys. Results: According to the studies and publications included, the most common occupations with an increased risk of upper limb injuries were office workers. Workers reported increased weariness, upper backache, and neck discomfort after commencing work. Neck and back pain have been shown to interfere with participants' normal activities. We discovered a positive correlation between computer usage on a regular basis. Conclusion: The majority of research participants experienced symptoms of office syndrome, mostly related to stiffness in their upper extremities and back. Employees working in offices who are older, female, have more experience, and put in longer hours are at a higher risk of developing these problems and need extra care. Ergonomic modifications, such as adjustable workstations and raised desks; behavioural cures, such as regular stretch breaks and postural awareness training.

Efforts To Prevent Low Back Pain In Office Workers

This study looks at low back pain (LBP) prevention techniques for office workers, with particular attention to demographics, prevalence of LBP, awareness, use, satisfaction, and perceived efficacy of interventions. Results show that there is a majority age group (26–35 years old), sporadic episodes of lower back pain, and a significant discrepancy between awareness and use of ergonomic modifications. Interventions involving physical activity exhibit lower levels of awareness and satisfaction. Studies that have been compared show that while awareness has grown throughout time, there are still ongoing difficulties in putting awareness into practice. Positive opinions of educational initiatives point to improvements in the prevention of LBP holistically. In order to have a thorough grasp of the long-term effects of preventive strategies, longitudinal designs should be used in future study. The study adds knowledge to the field of LBP prevention in office environments, which is constantly changing.

Decoding the impact of driving postures: Comparing neck pain, mobility, proprioception in car and bike drivers with and without Forward Head Posture

ObjectivesThe study sought to examine the effects of Forward Head Posture (FHP) on neck pain, cervical mobility, and proprioception in drivers. Additionally, it aimed to ascertain if the influence of FHP varied between car and bike drivers. MethodsEmploying a comparative cross-sectional approach, 100 drivers (50 car drivers and 50 bike users) aged 18–65, each reporting a minimum of 10 h of driving weekly, were studied. Participants were categorized based on the presence or absence of FHP. Assessment tools encompassed Surgimap for FHP detection, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain intensity, the Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) for mobility, and the Joint Position Error Test (JPET) for proprioception. Results60% of participants manifested FHP. At 70%, car drivers had a notably higher prevalence of FHP than bike drivers at 50%. Marked cervical mobility and proprioception differences were observed between drivers with and without FHP. Car drivers with FHP recorded an average pain score of 6.8 ± 1.2 on the VAS, significantly higher than the 3.1 ± 0.8 reported by those without FHP. Bike drivers with FHP reported elevated pain scores (5.9 ± 1.1) compared to those without FHP (3.4 ± 0.7). ConclusionThe findings underscore the significant repercussions of FHP on neck pain intensity, cervical mobility, and proprioception in drivers. Notably, vehicle type emerges as a critical factor, with car drivers displaying a heightened vulnerability compared to bike riders. This research emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions, informed driver education, and vehicle-specific ergonomic modifications to foster better postural health among drivers.

Immediate Skin to Skin Contact and Zero Separation of Mother Infant Dyads Among Healthy Term Infants Delivered Vaginally: A Quality Improvement Initiative in a Tertiary Care Institute in South India

Background The neonatal resuscitation program (NRP) recommends immediate skin-to-skin contact (SSC) of the neonate with the mother’s abdomen. Early establishment of SSC has increased the duration of breastfeeding and decreased neonatal morbidity significantly. Objective To achieve immediate SSC and zero separation of infant–mother dyads for a minimum of 30 min in vaginally born healthy term babies from 0% to 50% over 3 months by implementing a quality improvement (QI) initiative. Methods A QI initiative was undertaken at the maternity-newborn care unit of a tertiary-care hospital between March 2022 and December 2022. A team including neonatologists, obstetricians, pediatric postgraduates, and nurses (both neonatal and obstetric) in the concerned areas was identified. Using 5-why technique and fishbone analysis, the root cause analysis was done. Two plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles were undertaken. First, sensitization of healthcare personnel was done, and a written policy was made. Efforts were made to sustain the QI. Continuous surveillance, internal audits, and regular interprofessional team meetings were carried out. Results Prior to this QI, baseline data showed that no babies received SSC for 30 min. During the first PDSA cycle, 16.6% (4/24) of babies received SSC and zero separation for 30 min. During the II PDSA cycle, among 46 eligible neonates, 50% (23/46) received SSC &gt;30 min. During the sustenance phase, among 262 eligible neonates, 75.2 % (197/262) received &gt;30 min of SSC immediately after delivery. Conclusion Immediate SSC and zero separation for 30 min could be achieved by implementing simple measures through this QI initiative. The major hurdles, including the knowledge gap, fear, and safety of neonates, were tackled through simple strategies like education sessions, ergonomic modification, and sensitization of the healthcare team.

Effectiveness of Physical Exercise on Pain, Disability, Job Stress, and Quality of Life in Office Workers with Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Neck pain is a widespread medical condition among office workers worldwide. This study aimed to compare physical exercises, including basic body awareness, neck-specific training exercises and ergonomic modifications, and ergonomic modifications alone in the management of chronic non-specific neck pain (NSNP) among office workers. Sixty participants were randomly allocated to an experimental group (physical exercises and ergonomic modifications) or a control group (ergonomic modifications) and received the intervention two times a week for eight weeks. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index, Health and Safety Stress Tool, and Short Form Health Survey-36 were used to measure pain, disability, job stress, and quality of life at baseline, and at weeks 4 and 8 of the study period. A repeated measure ANOVA was used to determine the within-group significant differences and an independent t-test was utilized to compare group differences. The baseline data of the experimental and control groups showed no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05). The 2 × 3 mixed models ANOVA showed a significant difference in pain intensity (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.042), functional disability (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.052), work-related stress (p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.036), and QoL (p = 0.012, ηp2 = 0.025). Four weeks post-intervention, the experimental group showed significant changes in primary (pain intensity and disability) (1.9; 95% confidence interval 1.65-2.14) and secondary (quality of life and work-related stress) outcomes (p < 0.001). The same gradual improvement in these variables was observed in the 8-week follow-up (p < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in clinical outcomes following the application of physical exercises with ergonomic modifications for chronic NSNP among office workers. This is significant for office workers because it suggests the importance of incorporating physical exercises into their daily routine and making ergonomic changes to their workspaces.

MINIMIZING THE RISK FACTORS FOR LOW BACK PAIN IN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY WORKERS

Low back pain (LBP) felt in the anatomical area of ??a person's body is affected by a load or pressure outside the tolerance limit, with various variations in the length of time the pain complaint process occurs. This pain is felt in the lumbar or lumbo-sacral area. Workers in the batik industry may be at risk of LBP caused by work activities, such as bending, repetitive or monotonous movements, using work equipment and a non-ergonomic work environment. This study aims to minimize the risk factors for LBP in batik creative industry workers. The population of this study were all batik artisans in the written batik industry in Wukirsari Village, Imogiri District, Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region, totaling 1,021 people. The sample of this study was obtained by random sampling, to determine the sample using a lottery number and the name of the batik maker, totaling 60 batik people. The inclusion criteria for the sample of this study included female gender, writing batik work, working sitting using a chair. The sample consisted of a treatment group and a control group, each consisting of 30 batik makers, hereinafter referred to as respondents. The research instruments include: meter, microthoice, scales, chair, batik hurdle, and NBM questionnaire. Ergonomic work chair design for batik size: height of seat holder = 30 cm; length of seat holder = 40 cm; seat width = 37 cm; high back of chair = 43 cm; seat back width = 37 cm. Modification of batik gawangan is to redesign batik gawangan, material from bamboo diameter of about 3 cm, with size: height = 88 cm, width = 158 cm, 4-legged pieces, equipped with 3 watt LED lights. The results of the NBM in the treatment group decreased skeletal muscle complaints into criteria: low 96.7% and moderate 3.3%. The control group had skeletal muscle disorders criteria: low 23.3%, moderate 46.7%, high 20% and very high 10%. While the results of the t-test from the NBM data each of the 30 respondents between the treatment group and the control group, the value of p = 0.000 means that there are significant differences between respondents who use chairs and ergonomic modification modifications with respondents who use dingklik and gawangan which is old. The conclusion is that the use of chairs and modifications of the ergonomic batik wrestling can minimize the risk factors for LBP in the workers of the written batik creative industry

Factors Influencing Biomechanics during Pregnancy and Ergonomic Modifications to Alleviate Discomfort: A Descriptive Review

This in-depth analysis covers the biomechanical changes that take place during pregnancy and the effectiveness of ergonomic therapies for reducing pain and enhancing maternal wellbeing. Significant physiological changes brought on by pregnancy affect many aspects of the body, including biomechanics. During pregnancy, the lower back and lumbopelvic region are particularly prone to pain and musculoskeletal problems. A variety of factors, including weight growth, hormone changes, ligament elasticity, and postural changes, affect how the body moves and put more strain on the musculoskeletal system. Pregnant workers' biomechanical stress at work is made worse by occupational factors like physical demands and poor ergonomics. Various ergonomic solutions have been recommended during pregnancy to reduce discomfort and improve biomechanics. These include auxiliary devices (such as pregnancy belts, support bands), activity adaptations, psychosocial support, workplace modifications (such as adjustable workstations, supportive seats), and education and communication to empower women with knowledge of ideal body mechanics. The use of these therapies throughout pregnancy can increase comfort, preserve musculoskeletal health, and promote general wellbeing. This study emphasises the numerous effects on pregnancy biomechanics and stresses the value of integrating and synthesising already available information. Healthcare professionals, companies, and individuals can significantly reduce discomfort and promote a healthier and more comfortable pregnant experience by implementing evidence-based ergonomic changes.

Prevalence and Risk of Trapezitis in Beauticians and Hairdressers: An Observational Study

BACKGROUND: Trapezitis is an inflammation of the trapezius muscle which leads to pain and spasm. Trapezitis is known as the postural muscle and is the most commonly affected muscle due to uncomfortable prolonged posture which also effects the quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to find the prevalence and risk of trapezitis in beauticians and hairdressers in and around Bangalore. METHODOLOGY: A total of 165 beauticians and hairdressers, both male and female of work experience more than or equal to 1 year were assessed from beauty parlors and salons in and around Bangalore. Various Salons were visited and the details and methods of the study were explained to the owners and the employes, consent was taken after which the study was being carried out, in which a brief assessment was taken, few questions based on the questionnaire (NDI) were asked, graded and the total score was calculated; photographs of the employees in the most awkward posture maintained by them for more than 1 minute was captured, which was later used for the assessment of RULA scale and the scores were interpreted. All the data was tabulated in an excel sheet and the statistical analysis of the data was done from which the results were concluded. RESULTS: Out of the total sample size (n=165), 39,4% (n=65) reported experiencing neck pain in the past month. The NDI scores revealed that 96.4% (n=159) of the beauticians had mild to moderate neck disability, indicating substantial functional limitations. The RULA assessment demonstrated that 24.8% (n=41) of the participants were exposed to high-risk postures during their work activities, suggesting an increased likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders. The VAS scores indicated that 42.4% (n=70) of the beauticians reported moderate to severe neck pain, signifying a significant impact on their daily lives and well-being. CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence of a high prevalence of neck pain among beauticians, with significant functional limitations and pain intensity. The NDI, RULA, and VAS assessments collectively contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the issue, highlighting the urgent need for interventions aimed at improving workplace ergonomics and addressing the specific needs of beauticians. By implementing ergonomic modifications, such as adjustable workstations, regular breaks, and postural education, it is possible to reduce the prevalence and severity of neck pain, enhance functional abilities, and promote the well-being of beautician.

(Re-)Defining ergonomics in hand therapy: Applications for the management of upper extremity osteoarthritis

Study DesignInvited literature review BackgroundArthritis is the leading cause of disability in adults, and research shows that people living with arthritis experience work instability, loss of independence, financial difficulties, and overall decreased quality of life. Current nonpharmacological treatments can be beneficial for short term relief; however, the evidence on these long-term treatments is limited. Ergonomic modifications have been used in the workplace to address musculoskeletal conditions to ensure proper fit of one's environment, and research shows that these modifications can decrease pain and injury and increase work productivity. A broader perspective on ergonomic approaches may be important to supporting individuals with arthritis within hand therapy. Purpose of the StudyThis review proposes an expanded perspective on ergonomic approaches within hand therapy and explores published literature to identify potential benefits of applying ergonomic approaches for individuals with upper extremity arthritis. MethodsA systematic search and screening process was conducted to identify articles that implemented an ergonomic approach for the support of individuals with upper extremity osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. ResultsA total of 34 articles described interventions that employed ergonomics including task-based or general ergonomics (n = 17), contextualized supports (n = 8), or holistic, lifestyle approaches (n = 9). Only one study focused solely on individuals with osteoarthritis, whereas interventions for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis showed positive outcomes across these categories. Situational learning, building of patient self-efficacy, and development of new habits and routines are vital for carryover and implementation to support performance in daily life. ConclusionThere is an opportunity for hand therapists to extend the scope of interventions provided as part of an ergonomic approach to supporting patients. Specifically, therapists can consider use of emerging technologies and telehealth that promote contextualization and follow-up for long-term outcomes.

Ergonomics of gastrointestinal endoscopies: Musculoskeletal injury among endoscopy physicians, nurses, and technicians.

BACKGROUNDMusculoskeletal injuries (MSI) have plagued endoscopists and ancillary staff for decades without any innovative and strong ergonomic guidelines. It has placed a physical and mental strain on our endoscopists and ancillary staff. We have very have limited data supporting this claim in our region and most data is supported by western literature.AIMTo document the prevalence of MSI, and awareness and practices of ergonomics by endoscopists and ancillary staff.METHODSThis is an observational cross-sectional study, conducted in Karachi, a city that boasts the maximum number of daily endoscopies in the country. An eleven-point self-administered questionnaire was distributed and used to evaluate MSI and ergonomic adjustments amongst three tertiary care setups in Karachi. An onsite survey via a 13-point checklist for endoscopy suite facilities was used to assess the ergonomically friendly conveniences at five tertiary care setups in Karachi. A total of 56 participants replied with a filled survey.RESULTSThere were 56 participants in total with 39 (69.6%) males. Pain and numbness were documented by 75% of the patients, with pain in the neck (41.1%), lower back (32.1%), shoulder (21.4%), thumb (12.5%), hand (23.2%), elbow (8.9%), and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) (7.1%). Of those, 33.3% attributed their symptoms to endoscopy, 14.2% said that symptoms were not caused by endoscopy, and 52.4% were not certain whether endoscopy had caused their symptoms. Twenty-one point four percent of patients had to take time off their work, while 33.9% took medications for pain. Ergonomic modifications to prevent musculoskeletal injury, including placement of endoscopic monitor at eye level and the cardiac monitor in front, stopping the procedure to move patients, sitting while performing colonoscopy, and navigating height-adjustable bed were used by 21.4%. Nine out of 13 ergonomic facilities were not present in all five tertiary care hospitals. Conveniences, such as anti-fatigue mats, height-adjustable computer stations, and time out between patients were not present.CONCLUSIONThree-fourth of our endoscopists reported MSI, of which more than half were not sure or attributed this problem to endoscopy. The prevalence of MSI warrants urgent attention.

Changes in work patterns during COVID-19 lockdown and its impact on the eyes and body

ABSTRACTClinical relevanceGreater usage of digital devices and change of work pattern as working from home have created an impact on both visual and musculoskeletal systems. Developing an understanding of these changes could assist in providing appropriate care.BackgroundThe current study aims to elicit the changes in work patterns due to COVID-19 lockdown and understand the impact of the usage of digital devices on the visual system and musculoskeletal system.MethodsA survey was designed using Delphi technique and circulated through electronic communication sources using Google form to the working population and students across India, who consented to participate. The survey had components designed to develop an understanding of work patterns, digital device usage, associated visual/ocular symptoms, work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) symptoms, and relevant information on psychological factors, and practice of yoga/exercises.ResultsThere were 1302 valid responses. Mean age of respondents was 24 (IQR 11) years and 548 (42.1%) were male. A total of 1231 (94.5%) reported having one or many visual and ocular symptoms associated with the use of digital devices and 1140 (87.6%) responses indicated WRMSD symptoms. Of the symptomatic respondents, 561 (43.1%) had reported visual/ocular symptoms and 586 (45%) WRMSD symptoms during lockdown, which they did not experience during regular work. Risk factors for visual/ocular symptoms and WRMSD were females, spending more than 6 h on digital devices, taking breaks from digital devices after 2 h, inability to maintain a fair sleep schedule, and inability to make ergonomic modifications at home.ConclusionsA high prevalence of both visual/ocular symptoms (43.1%) and WRMSD symptoms (45%) was encountered during COVID-19 lockdown.

Ergonomics in follicular unit excision surgery.

Concentration and physical strength are essential for the long duration of hair transplant surgery. Because both the patient and the doctor must maintain certain postures for long periods, the importance of ergonomics cannot be understated. To review the devices, instruments, and techniques developed for ergonomic follicular unit excision surgery, to present our experience with various ergonomic modifications, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the related devices, novel concepts, and methods. We evaluated the scientific evidence supporting the ideas, methods, devices, and systems to help create a better ergonomic environment, and we investigated how these elements can be fine-tuned to improve efficiency when performing follicular unit excision graft harvesting. Through innovative methods, ideas, devices, and instruments, the authors achieved a high-quality ergonomic environment for performing follicular unit excision. Follicular unit excision is a widely used technique in hair restoration surgery. However, follicular unit excision is a very laborious and time-consuming procedure and mandates the best ergonomic conditions for both the surgeon and the patient. Therefore, it is crucial that the physician understands and appropriately adopts the various means and techniques to provide an ergonomic environment.

Role and Importance of Ergonomics in Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery: Outcomes of a Narrative Review.

Background: With recent technological advancement, new and improved endoscopic instruments and laser devices have catapulted flexible ureteroscopy to the forefront, hence making retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) a popular choice for the management of renal stones. However, RIRS has also resulted in an increasing number of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, which can have a detrimental impact on surgeons' physical health and operative lifespan. The aim of our review is to examine the impact and feasibility of ergonomic adjustments and outline future directions and recommendations to improve the awareness of and reduce the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries among urologists. Methods: This study was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A thorough literature review was conducted of several databases using the following keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms to generate a search strategy: nephrolithiasis, kidney calculus, renal calculus, staghorn calculus, ergonomics, position, fatigue, comfort, tire, physical strain, visual strain, muscle, ureteroscopy, RIRS, laser, and lithotripsy. Studies were chosen for inclusion by reviewers independently, and the data were consolidated for analysis. Results: A total of 1446 articles were identified on initial literature search; 23 were included in the final analysis. The impact of various ergonomic modifications on operative outcomes, surgeons, surgical equipment, and patients, was analyzed. In addition, we summarized all the improvements that resulted in better ergonomics in RIRS. Conclusion: Ergonomics in RIRS is poorly understood and there are currently no formal guidelines for this aspect. While modern endourology armamentarium seems to help with procedural ergonomics, more needs to be done to enhance surgeon comfort, protect surgeon longevity, and prioritize the health and safety of endourologists.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Pain and Coping Strategies in School Teachers

&lt;strong&gt;Introduction:&lt;/strong&gt; School teachers have high prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorders which decrease productivity at work due to sick leave and absenteeism. In India, more traditional methods of teaching are used as compared to other countries, and this difference encouraged us to determine prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, risk factors and coping strategies adopted by teachers. &lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; A self-administered Questionnaire was distributed to 810 particcipants. 567 responses were received out of which 30 questionnaires were incomplete. The self-administered Questionnaire included 31 questions under 5 categories: General Profile, Occupational profile, Health/Musculoskeletal pain profile, Perceived risk factors and Coping Strategies. Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation, frequency were calculated for continuous and categorical variables respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association of musculoskeletal symptoms with demograpic factors and working conditions. &lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; 112 (20.9%) reported having musculoskeletal pain. Low back (48.2%) was commonly affected. 50.9% had chronic pain and 71.4% reported pain interfered with occupational routine. 48.2% reported with sleep disturbances. Commonly percieved factor was standing for prolonged periods (76.8%). Risk factor analysis using logistic regression model on cause of pain showed statistical significance (χ2 (27)=77.169, p&amp;lt;0.005). Females were 3.952 times more likely to exhibit pain than males (OR 3.952, 95% CI 1.694- 9.217). Commonly reported coping strategy was visiting a Physiotherapist (44.6%). While 33% coped up with pain using prescribed analgesics, none of them opted to rest. Despite high prevalence and severity, only 17% had frequented absenteism to work by taking sick leave.&lt;strong&gt; Discussion:&lt;/strong&gt; Prevalence rate of musculoskeletal pain was found to be higher among school teachers as per the results of this present study. Prevalence and risk factor perceptions of school teachers as reported in this study can be of significance in understanding and addressing these factors and appropriate measures to prevent and overcome them can be devised based on these results. Since the risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms can be multifactorial in nature, the results of this present study need to be correlated with all possible mechanisms related to this population and further studies to determine the effectiveness of appropriate ergonomic modifications should be taken into consideration.

Toward Ergonomic Design in Ultrasound Scanning: Strategies to Mitigate Injurious Forces.

Sonographers experience stress-related musculoskeletal injuries at alarming rates. The magnitude of the problem has resulted in substantial economic and human costs. Early efforts, such as the transposition of office ergonomic models to the ultrasound suite, have been only marginally successful because of the vast difference between clerical and sonography work demands. In addition, although the issue has attracted the attention of professional sonographer societies, equipment manufacturers, and governmental agencies, such as the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health), the causative mechanisms by which sonographers are injured remain inadequately addressed. A definitive ergonomic solution has been elusive.With the help of occupational therapists and biomechanical engineers, we have developed a number of possible ergonomic modifications of ultrasound equipment. We explain the rationale behind these approaches to transducer design and assess the strengths and deficiencies of each.

A method for prioritizing the modification of ergonomic and physical aspects of the workplace to enhance overall worker satisfaction in control centre buildings

This article aims to develop a method for prioritizing indoor environmental quality parameters in the workplace (i.e., temperature, lighting, acoustics, air quality, layout, furnishing, cleanliness and maintenance) to enhance occupants’ workspace satisfaction. Data were collected using a web-based survey of 12 Iranian control centre buildings (CCBs) of combined cycle power plants. The results showed that fewer than half of occupants are satisfied with their workplace. Corrective measures would cost the owners an exorbitant amount of money if they were to try to address all of the parameters. Therefore, a statistical analysis framework was applied to determine each parameter’s importance in relation to overall workspace satisfaction. Based on detailed analysis, two levels of importance have been defined for ergonomic modification of each CCB. The statistical approach developed in this study can be applied to all kinds of buildings to determine where ergonomic modification is most likely to produce higher workspace satisfaction.

Impact of Workstation Exercise and Ergonomic Exercise on Nursing Population – A Randomized Clinical Trial Research Protocol

Nursing workers represent a significant proportion of the hospital workforce. In recent times, focus is puton increasing efficacy with reducing the concurrent risks in this population. Many researches imply onincluding workplace modifications and various exercises to reduce the number of absenteeism and heightenthe quality in work. As low back ache is the most prevalent, this study targets on determining the effects ofworkstation exercise and ergonomic intervention on it.Purpose -Nursing staff is the base of primary healthcare provision in the Indian background. The mostcommon reason for early retirement, sickness absenteeism, and decline in working population in nurses islow back pain. With proper evidence, the efficacy of workstation activities in nursing staff will mitigate oreliminate this issue in the area of healthcare.Methods: There will be 3 groups, workstation exercise group, ergonomic modification group and a controlgroup each consisting of 40 patients selected from a fixed criterion. They will be graded with a QOL scaleand a pain scale during the start of treatment and after 2 months to compare the results and determine whichtherapy gets better results.Results: Statistical analysis will be done after the study’s completed by use of concise and inferentialtests use Student’sdistribution t test on single and combined analysis, one-way Analysis of Variance (F)ANOVA test and Multiple Comparison: Turkey Test and analytical tools is SPSS24.0 version and GraphPad Prism 6.0 version and p&lt;0.05 is known as value point.Conclusions: Both the ergonomic training and workstation exercises will result in reduction of low backpain with workstation exercises proving more effective. The Publication will be done after conducting thestudy and obtaining the results through the statistical analysis.