Ergonomic Practices Research Articles

Assessing the Impact of Smartphone Use on Neck Pain and Related Symptoms Among Residents in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The widespread adoption of smartphones has transformed global communication but raised health concerns like Text Neck Syndrome - a musculoskeletal condition arising from prolonged device use, causing discomfort in the cervical spine. This study investigates its prevalence and associated factors among smartphone users in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, focusing on usage patterns, symptoms, and awareness. This cross-sectional online surveywas conducted from June 1 to June 30, 2024. Data on demographics, smartphone habits, symptoms, and Text Neck Syndrome awareness were collected using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The study included 421 participants, predominantly female (279, 66.3%) and Saudi nationals (397, 94.3%). The largest age group was 21-40 years (308, 73.2%), and most were single (251, 59.6%) with a college degree (236, 56.1%). Over 42.0% of participants used smartphones for more than five hours daily, with 39.4% adopting a 30-degree neck posture. The most prevalent symptoms reported were neck pain (272, 64.6%), headaches (203, 48.2%), and shoulder pain (178, 42.3%). Awareness of Text Neck Syndrome was reported by 197 participants (46.8%), but only 60 (14.3%) had been diagnosed. Concerns about long-term complications such as osteoporosis (105, 24.9%) and prolapsed intervertebral disc (120, 28.5%) were expressed. Despite these concerns, 97.9% of participants hesitated to reduce smartphone usage due to reported symptoms. This study highlights the significant musculoskeletal impact of smartphone use in Jeddah, underscoring the need for interventions promoting ergonomic practices and increasing awareness about associated risks. Public health strategies should focus on promoting ergonomic practices and educating users about preventive measures.

Examining the effect of maintenance work on employees’ physical and mental health, as well as their overall well-being, in industrial settings

This study examines the impact of maintenance work on the physical, mental health, and overall well-being (PMHOW) of employees in some industry types in South Eastern Nigeria. The research aims to enhance occupational health standards and support interventions for industrial maintenance workers. It identifies the stressors that maintenance workers face (physical work demands, high-pressure work environment, shift work and irregular work hours, lack of recognition and support, exposure to hazardous conditions, job complexity and technical challenges, and; monotony and repetitive tasks), these stressors affect employees’ health and well-being through musculoskeletal disorders, mental fatigue, increased risk of accidents, stress, anxiety, and burnout to mention but a few, it proposes strategies for mitigating them which include ergonomic practices, realistic workloads, supportive work culture, adequate staffing etc. Employee Satisfaction Survey was conducted across targeted industries. Based on survey results, employees' perceptions of variances in work characteristics reveal a mix of stable and fluctuating trends. This information helped identify which work characteristics were consistently experienced and which ones vary significantly among employees. Euclidean Distance assessment carried out also aided in identifying areas of intervention by focusing on specific groups of related work characteristics to enhance the work environment and promote better health outcomes. To enhance the mental and physical well-being of maintenance workers, organizations should implement comprehensive strategies that are tailored to the unique stressors and challenges of their work. This approach will not only boost job satisfaction but also contribute to a more efficient and healthier workforce.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Goldsmiths of Suha Bazaar, Lahore, Pakistan

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent across various industries, significantly affecting workers' health and productivity. The intricate and repetitive tasks in goldsmithing, a traditional craft, pose a high risk for the development of MSDs, particularly in regions like Suha Bazaar, Lahore, where ergonomic practices are often overlooked. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and specific areas of musculoskeletal discomfort among goldsmiths in Suha Bazaar, Lahore, and to identify potential ergonomic and workplace modifications to mitigate these disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, involving 122 professional goldsmiths selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Participants were aged 20 to 70 years, with at least three years of professional experience. Data were collected using the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to evaluate musculoskeletal symptoms, with additional demographic and occupational information gathered. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, focusing on descriptive statistics, frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants provided informed consent. Results: The study found that 40.2% of participants experienced discomfort in the upper back, 38.0% in the neck, and 27.9% in both shoulders. The average age of participants was 39.52 years (SD = 12.16), and the majority (86.9%) worked between 40-45 hours per week. Most participants (35.2%) had over 20 years of experience in the field. Conclusion: The high prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in critical areas such as the upper back and neck among goldsmiths in Suha Bazaar indicates an urgent need for ergonomic interventions and workplace improvements. Implementing ergonomic solutions and training on proper posture could significantly enhance occupational health and productivity in this traditional craft. Keywords: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Goldsmiths, Ergonomics, Occupational Health, Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, SPSS Analysis, Suha Bazaar, Lahore, Cross-Sectional Study.

Prevalence of Neck Pain in Physiotherapist

Background: Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among health professionals, including physiotherapists, who are often involved in activities that include holding a posture for a longer duration and performance of repetitive movements. The increased usage of smartphones and laptops enhances bad postures, particularly bending of the neck in flexion, adding to the problems related to neck pain. Objective: The present study has been taken up to assess the prevalence of neck pain among physiotherapists and their relation with gender and age. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 100 physiotherapists, of which 63 were females and 37 were males. Neck pain prevalence was assessed with the Neck Disability Index questionnaire. Data collection was done in person from November 2023 to February 2024. Results were statistically analyzed, with descriptive statistics shown in tabulations, graphs, and figures. Results: The overall prevalence of neck pain among the participants was 64%. In accordance with the NDI scale, the physiotherapists self-reported 39% to have mild disability; 23%, moderate disability; only 2% were severely disabled and none with complete disability. On a gender basis, females revealed a slightly higher prevalence of neck pain, 25%, compared to their male counterparts, 24%. Conclusion: In this study, a high prevalence of neck pain was found among physiotherapists, with a slightly increased occurrence in females. These findings bring out the importance of increasing awareness toward ergonomic practices and health regarding posture to decrease neck pain in physiotherapists. The modifiable risk factors identified will have an emphasis on the promotion of good postures with lifestyle modifications to aid in the prevention of neck pain in physiotherapists. Making these changes and taking up appropriate treatments form an important aspect of the management of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Musculoskeletal Health Risks Associated With Smartphone Use: A Retrospective Study from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Smartphone usage has become ubiquitous in Saudi Arabia with concerns growing over its impact on musculoskeletal health. Globally, various musculoskeletal symptoms have been linked to smartphone use such as neck pain, headaches, and shoulder discomfort, often exacerbated by poor posture and prolonged screen time. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to investigate the impact of smartphone use on musculoskeletal health among adults aged 18 years and older. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling from various settings such as universities, workplaces, and public areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered both online and in paper format, covering demographic characteristics, smartphone usage behaviors, awareness of smartphone-related health effects, and the prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms. A total of 413 participants from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, were surveyed to assess musculoskeletal symptoms associated with smartphone use. Demographic analysis revealed a predominantly young, single, and highly educated population, primarily Saudi nationals. Smartphone usage patterns showed extensive daily use, with over 41% using their devices for more than five hours daily. The majority were aware of smartphone-related health effects. Musculoskeletal symptoms were prevalent, notably neck pain (83.8%), arm pain (63.8%), and headaches (71.2%). The incidence of symptoms related to text neck syndrome was substantial, although awareness and diagnosis were limited. The severity of symptoms varied, with mild to moderate levels reported most frequently. This study highlights a substantial prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among smartphone users in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for public health interventions to promote ergonomic practices and mitigate health risks associated with smartphone use. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to establish causal relationships and evaluate intervention strategies aimed at reducing these symptoms effectively.

THE VISUAL LOAD DUE TO MAN-MACHINE WORK (COMPUTER, DIGITAL DEVICES)

Prolonged use of computers and digital devices can lead to various physical and mental health problems. This study sought to assess computer and digital device ergonomics (CDDE) of designers, photographers, IT professionals, accountants and suppliers in several Bulgarian firms and to determine the visual (VS) and musculoskeletal (MS) symptoms reported by the respondents. In the study, a survey was made, through a survey, using a Google Form. 42 participants were surveyed, within two weeks, in 3 age groups: up to 30 years, from 30 to 40 years and over 40 years. A significant proportion of employees reported various symptoms of VS and MS. The most affected parts of the body are identified: neck, arm/shoulder/wrist and waist. Special attention is paid to eye strain, and the symptomatology is most often related to visual symptoms, such as eye fatigue, eye pain, sensitivity to light, and others. The research covers significant issues related to health care and the importance of ergonomics in practice.

INVESTIGATING THE PREVALENCE OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME IN OFFICE WORKERS

The widespread use of advanced technology and gadgets has led to numerous health problems, including wrist pain due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). CTS is a common and costly issue among office workers. Although research indicates that CTS is not inherently related to work, it is a work-related neuropathy resulting from the compression of the median nerve due to repetitive stressful wrist postures, such as hyperextension or hyperflexion. Objective: This study aims to measure the prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) among office workers, considering computer usage and typing as risk factors, and to assess how job demands contribute to CTS at the workplace. Methods: A quantitative research model using a prospective survey design was employed. The study was conducted among office workers from the manufacturing and services industries in Punjab, Pakistan. A convenient sample of 280 office workers participated. Data were collected using the standardized Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire to evaluate the impact of CTS on activities of daily living (ADLs) and socioeconomic life. The study duration was six months. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 23.0. Results: The study found a comparatively high prevalence of work-related wrist and hand complaints, including clinically proven CTS, among youthful office employees in Pakistan. Regular discomfort while working significantly increased the likelihood of developing CTS. Extended periods of computer use without breaks also heightened the risk of wrist and hand symptoms. Conclusion: There is a significant prevalence of CTS among office workers in Pakistan linked to prolonged computer use and repetitive wrist postures. Effective interventions and ergonomic practices are essential to reduce the incidence and impact of CTS in the workplace.

INDUSTRIAL ERGONOMICS: EXAMINING ERGONOMIC PRACTICES AND COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME (CVS)

Computers have become a major component in daily life, especially in the context of higher education in this digital age. University lecturers increasingly rely on computers to perform various daily tasks, which is a trend that has intensified particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The growing dependence on computers raises concerns about the negative health implications that may arise from long-term use. One of the main effects is Computer Vision Syndrome (CSV). CSV is a result of continuous computer use and can have a negative impact on eye health. One strategy to address this issue is to implement ergonomic principles when using computers. This study aims to investigate ergonomic practices among university lecturers, as well as the prevalence of CSV among them. In addition, this study aims to determine the relationship between CVS and ergonomics. This study involves data collection through questionnaires which the respondents are university lecturers in Malaysia. A total of 245 randomly selected respondents answered the questionnaire distributed through an online platform. The data obtained was analyzed using descriptive and Chi Square analysis, exploring ergonomic practices such as eye distance from the screen, viewing angle, keyboard position, light intensity, position of neck, head, wrist, thigh position and stretching practices. According to the study's findings, over 56% of lecturers incorporate ergonomic principles when using computers; nevertheless, only 38.4% of respondents adhere to the recommendation for keyboard viewing distance. Next, the CVS symptoms are categorized into three, namely eyes, vision and head, neck, and shoulders. A comparison between these three categories of symptoms showed that the head, neck, and shoulders symptoms were the most significant with 42.1% of the respondents showing moderate and severe symptoms. It is followed by vision and finally symptoms to the eyes, with the percentage of 22.9% and 19.6%, respectively. In addition, it was found that one vision symptom is associated to monitor distance (p 0.05). The findings from this research contributed valuable insights into understanding the occupational risks associated with prolonged computer use in academic settings. By raising awareness and potentially implementing preventative measures, this study helps to promote better well-being among university lecturers.

Prevalence of Back Deformities Among Primary School Students

<i>Background</i>: The high incidence of spinal abnormalities among primary school students is a pressing health issue that demands attention. Recent epidemiological studies have emphasized the importance of spinal anomalies in this specific population. The rising prevalence can be attributed to factors such as sedentary lifestyles, insufficient ergonomic practices, and a lack of awareness. Understanding the extent of these abnormalities is crucial for promptly identifying and intervening since they might affect the general welfare and educational achievement of primary school students. The aim of this study was to estimate the Prevalence of Back Deformities among Primary School Students in Khartoum, Sudan 2022-2023. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: This study is an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional community-based study conducted in four government primary schools in the Bahri locality from November 2022 to February 2023 among primary school students. Data was analyzed and interpreted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) data analysis software version 26.0. <i>Results</i>: This study included a total of 383 primary school students in Bahri locality (males: 200 (52.2%) and females: 183 (47.8%). The male-to-female ratio is 1.1:1, with a mean age of 9 years and ranging from 6 to 12 years. The posture wall test and Adam forward bending test were used to diagnose coronal and sagittal deformities. The posture wall test was positive in 3 cases (0.78%). There were 3 cases of kyphosis, 2 males and 1 female. The deformity was in the thoracic region in all cases.

Assessing Muscular Pain and Ergonomics Among Robotic Surgeons in China: A Validation.

Robotic surgery has transformed minimally invasive procedures, offering precision and efficiency. However, the ergonomic aspects of robotic consoles and their impact on surgeon health remain understudied. This review investigates the burden of ergonomics and muscle fatigue among robotic surgeons in China, comparing the findings to a multinational study. A literature review identified themes related to physical discomfort in robotic surgery. A questionnaire was administered to Chinese robotic surgeons, yielding 40 responses. The study assessed demographic characteristics, surgeon experience, ergonomic practices, reported discomfort, and pain-relief mechanisms. The study revealed that most surgeons experienced shoulder and neck pain, with mixed opinions on whether robotic surgery was the primary cause. Stretching exercises were commonly used for pain relief. Surgeons believed that case volume and surgery duration contributed to discomfort. Comparisons with a multinational study suggested potential demographic and experience-related differences. While the study has limitations, including a small sample size and potential translation issues, it underscores the importance of addressing ergonomic concerns and providing proper training to robotic surgeons to ensure their well-being and longevity in the field. Further research with larger cohorts and platform-specific analyses is warranted.

ERGONOMIC AWARENESS SURVEY: EXAMINING MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN PREVALENCE AND CONTRIBUTING FACTORS AMONG DENTAL PROFESSIONAL IN A SAMPLE OF INDIAN POPULATION

Background: Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is a serious workplace hazard for dental professionals. Efforts have been made to investigate the prevalence of MSDs and risk factors in various Indian regions. However, these are primarily tied to workplace risk factors and overlook the impact of lifestyle and ergonomic awareness as risk factors for MSP in dentists. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSP among dental professionals and its associated work, lifestyle, and awareness-related risk factors. Material and methods: A cross-sectional observational research design were conducted among dental professionals working in the clinical facilities. The snowball sampling technique was employed to choose participants. The data collection tool was administered via a Google Form survey. Categorical variables were reported as frequency and percentage. Chi-square was applied with a P-value <0.05 as significant. Results: 120 dental practitioners were enrolled in the study. 53.3% of participants reported having work-related MSD. Male professionals had a greater incidence (55.6%) than their female counterparts (48.7%). The most commonly reported specific discomforts were back/neck pain (18.3%), isolated neck pain (15.8%), and back pain (12.5%). The number of hours worked each day (p=0.001), type of activity (p=0.022), work stress (p=0.001), and ergonomics in the curriculum (p=0.039) differed significantly between male and female participants. Medical problems (p=0.001) and their types (p=0.022), dental support during practice (p=0.005), and ergonomics in the dental curriculum (0.005) varied significantly among age groups. Conclusion: There is a significant prevalence of work-related MSP among Indian dentists, particularly in males over 40 years age. Factors such as physical activity, stress levels, co-existing medical conditions, and exposure to ergonomic education may influence the prevalence of MSDs. Thus, there is a need for continuing education programs and advocating for more comprehensive training in ergonomic practices to mitigate the risk of MSDs among dental professionals.

Surgical Pearls and Wellness Tips From the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.

At the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting in San Diego, California, attendees explored the latest advancements in clinical and surgical dermatology and physician well-being. Key takeaways for residents included enhancing surgical experiences, adapting ergonomic practices, and prioritizing both patient and physician well-being. The meeting underscored the importance of combining technical proficiency with compassionate patient care and continuous learning in dermatology.

Physical survey on the health hazards of welding activities on welding operators in Uyo, Nigeria

Background: Welding operators are subjected to several forms of hazards during welding activities. Aim: The study aimed to identify the common practices in welding operations, assess the potential health hazards associated with these practices, and propose recommendations for improving the well-being of welding operators. Methodology: The survey was conducted at different welding workshops in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A total of 100 welding operators were observed and interviewed to gather data on their working practices and the health effects they experienced. Results: The findings revealed that the most common welding practices included manual metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and gas tungsten arc welding. These practices involved exposure to various hazards such as fumes, gases, noise, and ultraviolet radiation. The survey also found that a significant number of welding operators reported experiencing health issues such as respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye injuries, and hearing loss. These health effects were attributed to the lack of proper ventilation, inadequate personal protective equipment, and poor ergonomic practices in the welding workshops. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlights the importance of addressing the health hazards associated with welding operations to ensure a safer and healthier work environment for improved work conditions and well-being of welding operators. In light of the findings, several recommendations including the implementation of proper ventilation systems, provision of adequate personal protective equipment, regular health screening for welding operators, and training programs on safe welding practices is proposed in order to improve the well-being of welding operators

Ergonomics in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Understanding effective ergonomic interventions is crucial for enhancing occupational health and career longevity. There is a paucity of clear ergonomics guidelines in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS), placing practitioners at high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and their consequences. There is mounting evidence that FPRS specialists are at increased risk of WMSDs as compared with the public and other surgical specialties. Numerous studies have demonstrated that implementation of ergonomics principles in surgery decreases WMSDs. Furthermore, WMSDs are reported as early as the first year of surgical residency, marking the importance of early intervention. Fatigue and physical injuries among surgeons occur more often than expected, particularly during complex, extended procedures that necessitate maintaining a constant posture. FPRS procedure often place surgeons into procrustean positions. Thus, integrating ergonomic practices into the practice of FPRS is essential for reducing WMSDs.

Ergonomic wellness for the trainee in gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Endoscopy-related injuries (ERIs) are prevalent in gastrointestinal endoscopy. The aim of this review is to address the growing concern of ERIs by evaluating the ergonomic risk factors and the efficacy of interventions and educational strategies aimed at mitigating these risks, including novel approaches. ERIs are highly prevalent, exacerbated by factors such as repetitive strain, nonneutral postures, suboptimal equipment design, and the procedural learning curve. Female sex and smaller hand sizes have been identified as specific risk factors. Recent guidelines underscore the importance of ergonomic education and the integration of ergonomic principles into the foundational training of gastroenterology fellows. Advances in equipment design focus on adaptability to different hand sizes and ergonomic positions. Furthermore, the incorporation of microbreaks and macrobreaks, along with neutral monitor and bed positioning, has shown promise in reducing the incidence of ERIs. Wearable sensors may be helpful in monitoring and promoting ergonomic practices among trainees. Ergonomic wellness is paramount for gastroenterology trainees to prevent ERIs and ensure a sustainable career. Effective strategies include ergonomic education integrated into curricula, equipment design improvements, and procedural adaptations such as scheduled breaks and optimal positioning. Sensor-based and camera-based systems may allow for education and feedback to be provided regarding ergonomics to trainees in the future.

Estimation of lower back muscle force in a lifting task using wearable IMUs

Low back pain is commonly reported in occupational settings due to factors such as heavy lifting and poor ergonomic practices, often resulting in significant healthcare expenses and lowered productivity. Assessment tools for human motion and ergonomic risk at the workplace are still limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess lower back muscle and joint reaction forces in laboratory conditions using wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) during weight lifting, a frequently high-risk workplace task. Ten able-bodied participants were instructed to lift a 28 lbs. box while surface electromyography sensors, IMUs, and a camera-based motion capture system recorded their muscle activity and body motion. The data recorded by IMUs and motion capture system were used to estimate lower back muscle and joint reaction forces via musculoskeletal modeling. Lower back muscle patterns matched well with electromyography recordings. The normalized mean absolute differences between muscle forces estimated based on measurements of IMUs and cameras were less than 25 %, and the statistical parametric mapping results indicated no significant difference between the forces estimated by both systems. However, abrupt changes in motion, such as lifting initiation, led to significant differences (p < 0.05) between the muscle forces. Furthermore, the maximum L5-S1 joint reaction force estimated using IMU data was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those estimated by cameras during weight lifting and lowering. The study showed how kinematic errors from IMUs propagated through the musculoskeletal model and affected the estimations of muscle forces and joint reaction forces. Our findings showed the potential of IMUs for in-field ergonomic risk evaluations.

Beyond the chairside: A narrative review of ergonomic practices in dentistry for preventing work-related musculoskletal disorders

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) refer to conditions significantly influenced or exacerbated by the work environment. Reports of WMSDs among dental professionals have increased, with specific risk factors including stress, poor flexibility, improper positioning, infrequent breaks, repetitive movements, weak postural muscles, prolonged awkward postures, and equipment mis-adjustment. Ergonomics, focusing on designing jobs and workplaces to fit workers, plays a pivotal role in preventing long-term disabilities arising from repetitive strain injuries. This article explores the prevalence, risk elements and strategies dedicated to preventing WMSDs in dental operatory settings.

A Study of Prevalence and Risk Factors of Digital Eye Strain among Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Patients

Background: The proliferation of digital devices in modern society has led to a significant increase in the prevalence of Digital Eye Strain (DES), characterized by symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, and headaches. This condition poses a particular risk to individuals with systemic conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, which can exacerbate ocular symptoms. Understanding the relationship between DES and diabetes is crucial for developing targeted interventions to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of Digital Eye Strain among diabetic and non-diabetic individuals, examining the impact of digital device usage patterns, ocular surface health, and visual discomfort symptoms in both groups. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Eye Department of Jeddah National Hospital, involving 150 diabetic and 150 non-diabetic participants, employing purposive sampling. Participants were evaluated for DES symptoms, digital device usage habits, and clinical signs of ocular surface health, including Tear Break Up Time (TBUT), Fluorescein Stains (FS), and Tear Meniscus Height. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, focusing on statistical differences between the two groups. Results: The mean age of participants was 56 years (SD=10.3) for the diabetic group and 54 years (SD=8) for the non-diabetic group, with a balanced gender distribution across both groups. Diabetic participants demonstrated a significantly lower TBUT (median=5 seconds, IQR=2) compared to non-diabetics (median=7 seconds, IQR=1), P=0.001. DES symptoms, particularly eye fatigue and headaches, were more prevalent among diabetics, with over four hours of computer usage exacerbating symptoms (eye fatigue: 57%, P=0.001; headache: 32.8%, P=0.029). Environmental and behavioral factors, including improper illumination and infrequent breaks, were significantly associated with increased DES symptoms. Conclusion: Digital Eye Strain is more prevalent and severe among diabetic individuals, with significant implications for ocular and general well-being. The findings underscore the need for targeted digital health interventions and ergonomic practices to mitigate DES symptoms, especially among those with diabetes.

WORKING TOGETHER TO DELIVER SAFE CARE

Throughout this four-part Advancing Practice series, we have explored the science and practice of human factors and ergonomics in healthcare, and how a systems approach can support maternity, midwifery care and patient safety. In this final article, we explore the Maternity Support Worker (MSW) role and how registered midwives and MSWs can work together to support the delivery of safe and efficient maternity care. The reflection points in this article are adapted from NHS Education for Scotland’s Safety Culture Discussion Cards.1 In this series, we hope to support an improved understanding of the current maternity safety landscape.

Impacts and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders among odontostomatologists

Musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) is a group of periarticular conditions affecting the soft and bony tissues of the limbs and back. Its prevalence is high among odontostomatologists, ranging from 60 to 90.3%. It is therefore a real source of concern and a public health problem. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the impacts and prevention of this disorder among odontostomatologists. This is a literature review study following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method. The documentary search on scientific databases was carried out using the keywords TMS, odontostomatologists, ergonomics, prevention. The study included all articles on the impacts and prevention of MSDs among odontostomatologists published over the past 10 years from 2013 to 2023 written in French or English without restriction as to article type. Incomplete, irrelevant articles published in scientific conferences were excluded . The study analyzed 32 articles and showed that the main impacts of MSDs were pain (56.5%), self-medication (17.4%), reduced quality of work and working hours (17.4%), absenteeism and early retirement (13.0%). Prevention was based on the practice of good ergonomics (73.3%), the use of magnifying glasses (33.3%) and the practice of physical exercise after work (20%). Given these results, ongoing training in MSD prevention is essential to reduce or avoid its occurrence.