High Prevalence Of Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

Musculoskeletal Disorders Among the United Arab Emirates Healthcare Professionals: Ergonomics Knowledge and Practice Study

Background: Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to job demands such as prolonged standing, patient handling, and awkward postures. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among HCPs, examine the association between ergonomic knowledge and practices with MSDs, and identify predictors of ergonomic knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCPs, including doctors and nurses, working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The prevalence of MSDs was determined using the Nordic Questionnaire. Ergonomic knowledge and practice were assessed through a validated questionnaire covering sociodemographic and work-related factors, ten knowledge items, and fifteen practice items. A scoring system was used, where correct answers received a score of one, and incorrect answers received a score of zero. Ergonomic knowledge and practices were considered inadequate when participant scores fell below the median values of six for knowledge and eight for practice. The calculated sample size was 398, with a response rate of 96%, resulting in 380 participants. The chi-square test, binary, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: The twelve-month prevalence of MSDs was 90.4%, with the highest percentage reported in the lower back (56%), followed by the upper back (43.4%), neck (39.2%), shoulder (38.9%), and elbow (21.3%). Inadequate ergonomic knowledge and incorrect ergonomic practices were found in 61.8% and 36.3% of HCPs, respectively. A significant association was observed between inadequate ergonomic knowledge (P < 0.001) and practice (P = 0.035) and the presence of MSDs. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.00 - 3.5, P = 0.049), the provision of ergonomics training and awareness at the workplace (OR: 3.7; 95%CI: 1.9 - 7.2, P < 0.001), and inadequate ergonomic practices (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.0, P = 0.014). Conclusions: A very high prevalence of MSDs was found among HCPs, with the lower back being the most commonly affected site. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked, the availability of ergonomics training at the workplace, and inadequate ergonomic practices. This study underscores the need for ergonomic training programs and ergonomically friendly workplaces to equip HCPs with the knowledge and practices necessary to prevent MSDs.

High Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study From Kerala, India.

Literature on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), work ability, and associated factors among dentists is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSD, work ability, and associated factors among dentists in Kerala, India. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 dentists (median age: 34 years, 47% male), selected from a list of dentists in a district of Kerala. Information on MSD and work ability were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire administered both online and through direct interviews. Factors associated with MSD were analyzed using multivariable regression analysis. The prevalence of MSD in the past 12 months was 86.9% (95% CI: 83.1 - 90.9), and in the past seven days was 42.4% (95% CI: 36.7 - 48.08). Among those reporting MSD in the last 12 months, 21.4% experienced it in two sites. Of the nine regions assessed, the neck was the most affected over the past 12 months, with 57.6% reporting discomfort, while the lower back was the most affected in the last seven days (21.4%). Work ability was rated as excellent by 24.5% of participants and good by 51.7%. In the regression analysis, no significant association was found between socioeconomic factors and MSD during either time period. However, bivariate analysis showed that dentists who were overweight and those aged 34 years or older reported significantly more knee-related MSD in the past seven days (p=0.033 and p=0.037, respectively). Despite the high prevalence of MSD among dentists, more than three-fourths reported good or excellent work ability. Implementing mandatory ergonomic assessments and interventions in dental workplaces may help reduce MSD among dentists.

Measuring the Effect of an Ergonomic Lecture on the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment Scores of Dental Assistant Students Using Inertial Sensor-Based Motion Capture-A Randomized Controlled Study.

Individuals working in the field of dentistry have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) owing to monotonous and one-sided physical exertion. Inertial measurement units (IMU) are increasingly shifting into focus for assessing postural risk at work. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of an ergonomic lecture and training intervention on postural risk and MSDs in dental assistant students using inertial sensor-based motion capture (MoCap). Eighteen female dental assistant students (age: 19.44 ± 6.83 years; height: 164.59 ± 5.32 cm; weight: 64.88 ± 16.52 kg; BMI: 19.70 ± 4.89 kg/m2), randomly divided into intervention (n = 9) and control (n = 9) groups, participated in the present study. The participants completed the Nordic Questionnaire on MSD prevalence, after which a 90 s MoCap with Xsens IMU was performed. A lecture on ergonomics was provided, followed by a five-week intervention for the intervention group. Follow-up assessments were performed, and 5- and 18-week follow-up MSD questionnaires were administered. Mixed analysis of variance (MANOVA) showed a significant difference in the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and part-scores of the upper arm and wrist. Despite a reduction in MSDs, no significant differences in the time of measurement and groups were detected after the five-week training intervention and the 18-week follow-up questionnaire. A targeted ergonomics lecture was effective for dental assistant students, and technologies such as IMU improved workplace ergonomics in dentists. Further studies with a longer measurement periods, follow-up, and larger sample sizes are recommended.

Impact of Remedial Exercise Training on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Morbidity Among Handloom Weavers in Kanchipuram District: A Quasi-experimental Study.

The handloom weaving industry is integral to developing countries, especially in South Asia, where traditional techniques are still widely practiced. In India, the handloom sector is a significant part of the informal economy, employing millions and preserving rich cultural heritage. Despite its economic and cultural importance, the sector faces severe challenges, including poor working conditions that lead to a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study focuses on assessing the prevalence of musculoskeletal morbidity and the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in reducing WMSDs among handloom weavers in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre- and post-test design conducted over 12 months. A total of 121 handloom weavers from four major cooperative societies in Kanchipuram were selected using multistage sampling. Inclusion criteria were adults over 18 years, full-time weavers with more than a year of experience, and those who consented to participate. The study involved initial data collection through interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess pain prevalence. The intervention phase included physiotherapy exercise training thrice a week for three months, followed by post-intervention data collection and analysis. Pre-intervention data indicated high prevalence rates of musculoskeletal pain, with 62% of participants reporting knee pain and 54.5% reporting ankle/foot pain over the past year. Post-intervention assessments showed significant reductions in pain across all body parts, with the most substantial decreases in knee and shoulder pain. For instance, knee pain scores decreased from 3.10 ± 2.61 to 1.81 ± 1.69. The overall mean pain rating significantly dropped from 1.72 ± 0.88 pre-intervention to 1.00 ± 0.50 post-intervention, demonstrating the effectiveness of the physiotherapy exercises. The study confirms the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among handloom weavers and demonstrates the significant impact of physiotherapy interventions in alleviating pain. Implementing regular physiotherapy exercises can substantially improve the well-being and productivity of handloom weavers, ensuring the sustainability of this vital cultural and economic industry. The results advocate for policy changes and increased support for ergonomic and health interventions in the handloom sector.

The Knowledge and Attitude of Undergraduate Dental Students toward Dental Ergonomic Principles in Occupational Health.

Undergraduate dental curricula and courses containing ergonomic principles are introduced to students from the very beginning of dental education. Still, dentists present a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, which are a direct burden on quality of life, leading to early retirement from the profession. This study aimed to assess the state of students' knowledge and awareness regarding the role of ergonomics in dentistry and its practical implementation. a cross-sectional study using a predesigned self-administered questionnaire was conducted among fourth- and fifth-year dental students of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland (response rate of 69.2%). A total of 94.6% of students declared a good, fair, or moderate level of knowledge of the subject, with a significant difference in favor of the fifth-year students (p = 0.008). Moreover, 76.1% of respondents showed a good or very good attitude toward ergonomics as a university curriculum subject. A total of 72.3% of respondents declared that the practical application of ergonomic rules in clinical dentistry is very important (five in a five-point scale). Women found dental ergonomics more important than men (p < 0.001). However, 79.3% of participants admitted not following basic ergonomic principles during clinical procedures. The research revealed a discrepancy between theoretical knowledge and awareness and the practical application of ergonomics in a clinical environment. Only by inculcating correct occupational standards and abiding by them from the commencement of dental education can consistency between theory and practice be achieved. This will hopefully ensure the health and well-being of dental team members throughout their professional lives.

Hubungan Indeks Massa Tubuh dan Posisi Kerja dengan Keluhan Muskuloskeletal pada Ibu Rumah Tangga di Desa Bedali

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are health problems involving joints, ligaments, muscles, and bones due to poor posture. A study showed that women, particularly housewives, have a higher prevalence of MSDs and suggested that household chores could be an independent risk factor for the increase in MSDs. This study aims to identify independent risk factors that may cause musculoskeletal complaints among housewives in Bedali, Ngancar. The research method uses a cross-sectional survey on 20 housewives aged 26 – 35 years, with data collected through interviews and the Nordic Body Map (NBM) questionnaires combined with demographic data. The Nordic Body Map (NBM) is a questionnaire used to detect discomfort or pain in the body and identify musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers. Data analysis used Spearman Correlation Coeficient test and Chi-Square tests. The results showed a strong correlation between Body Mass Index and working positions, specifically standing and squatting. Therefore, BMI and work positions, specifically standing and squatting can be independent risk factor for musculoskeletal complaint. Based on these findings, it is recommended that health promoters emphasizes educating the entire community about work safety, particulary regarding how to perform activities with ergonomic working positions. This study provides theoretical benefits for public health education.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Housewives: A Survey Study

Introduction: In Indian society, housewives serve as the foundational pillars around which familial structures revolve. Women perform wide variety of activities daily in the kitchen, due to continuous work performance housewives suffer various kind of physical disorders like musculoskeletal disorders, pain in joints, back, shoulders, arms, and hands due to prolong standing posture. Persistence of Musculoskeletal pain results in decreased productivity which at the end leads to poor quality of life. Aim of the study: The survey aims to evaluate prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among housewives. Methodology: A survey study was conducted among 100 housewives. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire and Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to determine the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders. Convenience sampling was used for the study. Results: The findings revealed that the prevalence of MSDs among housewives was 79%. Maximum prevalence (46.8%) was found in the age group 30-40 years. The most common site of musculoskeletal disorder among housewives was multiple regions (46.8%), followed by lower back (21.5%). Other regions such as the neck, knees, shoulders, and elbows also showed varying levels of prevalence. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study showed a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among housewives. The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of this health concern, influenced by various risk factors including age, BMI distribution, number of dependents, duration of household activities, and types of tasks performed. Keywords: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Housewives, Risk factors

Musculoskeletal disorders and visual problems among surgical versus medical physicians: A cross-sectional study.

The healthcare industry is one of the main industries with a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Surgical practice mostly involves repetitive tasks with fine motor control, precise motions, high levels of mental concentration, and close visual focus. This cross-sectional study aimed to define the prevalence and risk factors of MSDs and visual problems among physicians. One hundred surgical physicians and one hundred medical physicians were involved in the study. Both groups underwent assessment of socio-demographic and occupational history, alongside evaluation for musculoskeletal and visual problems. The study revealed a significantly higher prevalence of MSDs, particularly neck and back pain, as well as blurred near vision and eye dryness, among surgical physicians compared to medical physicians. Risk factors for these conditions included long working hours (≥30h/week) in clinics or operating rooms, as well as using endoscopes and microscopes/loupes during surgery. In conclusion, MSDs and visual problems were prevalent among physicians, particularly surgical physicians. Integrating ergonomic principles across all domains of healthcare and promoting healthcare worker awareness through training and intervention programs are crucial steps in addressing these issues.

Investigating the relationship between body structure status, work activity type, and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among detergent industry workers.

The physical condition of workers' body structure and assigned duties, can contribute to the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between body structure status, type of work activity, and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among workers in the detergent industry. This cross-sectional study involved 148 industrial workers selected based on inclusion criteria and their medical checkup records. Data collection for the study included a demographic information questionnaire, a body map questionnaire, and an assessment of the workers' musculoskeletal system conducted by three physiotherapists simultaneously. 54.1% of the participants had a total body structure score classified as poor or fair. The neck region showed the highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (51.4%), followed by the lower back region (35.1%). Significant associations were found between abnormalities in the upper and middle limbs of the body and the prevalence of pain in the right shoulder region (Fisher/F = 9.29, P≤0.05) as well as the intermediate back region (F = 10.28, P≤0.01). Office workers experienced a higher prevalence of neck pain than workers in the product line and technical roles, with a statistically significant Odds Ratio (OR) ranging between 2.7 and 6.6 times. Conversely, industrial workers who operate powered machinery showed a higher prevalence of pain in the left shoulder (OR = 3.93) and left foot (OR = 4.07). Meanwhile, workers involved in loading and unloading tasks had a higher prevalence of pain in the middle back (OR = 3.61) and right foot (OR = 4.5) compared to office workers. The prevalence of pain in the right shoulder and middle back may be due to abnormalities in the upper and intermediate body structure. Production line workers reported a higher prevalence of pain in the left shoulder, middle back, and foot compared to office workers.

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.

Exploring multisite musculoskeletal symptoms among sewing machine operators in a tunisian leather and footwear industry using decision tree models

Background/objectivesSewing machine operators (SMO) are the most likely workers to experience a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the textile, clothing, and footwear industries. We conducted a cross-sectional and exhaustive study among SMO working in the leather and footwear industry to describe the prevalence of multi-site musculoskeletal symptoms (MMS) and evaluate factors associated with their occurrence. MethodsMusculoskeletal symptoms declared by these operators were assessed through the modified Nordic questionnaire. The psychosocial work environment was assessed using the Karasek model. The variables associated with MMS were issued from binary logistic regression and decision tree using R software. ResultsOf 145 operators, 65.5 % of men and 72.4 % of women had MMS. Based on binary logistic regression, a history of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) increased the risk of developing MMS by 8 folds. The binary decision tree identified five main nodes: history of MSDs, professional seniority, often finding the pace of work restrictive and male gender. ConclusionIdentifying homogeneous profiles of MMS's occurrence will help the implementation of an effective and targeted preventive strategy.

Epidemiological Profile of Spinal Musculoskeletal Disorders in Amazonian Physiotherapy Patients

This study aimed to characterize the epidemiological profile of musculoskeletal disorders of the spine in patients seeking physiotherapy treatment in the Brazilian Amazon region. A cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative study was conducted using the medical records of patients treated at the physiotherapy college of the Federal University of Amazonas, Campus Coari. Epidemiological aspects, medical history, and physical examination data of 283 patients of both sexes, aged between 10 and 70 years, were included, with 155 medical records used for analysis.The results indicated a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lumbar spine, particularly among women aged between 31 and 40 years, with teachers being the most affected group.In light of these findings, the predominance of these disorders among women and in the lumbar region is emphasized, underscoring the importance of specific attention to this patient group in the studied region. Additionally, understanding the epidemiological profile of these conditions can assist in directing appropriate preventive and therapeutic measures to improve the quality of life and well-being of patients with musculoskeletal disorders of the spine in the Brazilian Amazon region.

Effect of Internet Addiction on Academic Achievement and Musculoskeletal Disorders of University Students

Introduction: Today, various platforms, including virtual networks and websites, connect people with a lot of data via Internet. The attractiveness of these platforms sometimes makes people use them addictively. Uncontrolled use of the Internet may also cause problems such as reducing academic performance and creating musculoskeletal problems.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 students at one of the universities of medical sciences. Four demographic questionnaires, Young's Internet addiction, Pham and Taylor's academic achievement and Nordic questionnaire were used to collect information. Data analysis was done using descriptive tests and Pearson's correlation, by SPSS V.16 software at a significance level of 0.05.&#x0D; Results: The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was related to the upper back (40.8%), lower back (36%) and neck (33.8%) regions. Among different parts of the body, reports of pain in the neck, shoulder, and wrist had a significant relationship with Internet addiction (P-Value: 0.038, 0.007, and 0.029, respectively). No significant relationship was found between different levels of Internet addiction and academic achievement.&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is one of the complications of incorrect and unprincipled use of Internet-related equipment; Therefore, these problems can be reduced by providing appropriate educational platforms and creating a correct culture of using emerging technologies

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Disorders in School Teachers During the Pre-covid and Pandemic Phases in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka – a Cross-sectional Study

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among school teachers in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study included 254 secondary and pre-university teachers who completed a questionnaire. Results indicated a higher prevalence of MSDs among teachers working from home during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. Factors such as days worked per week, hours of work per day, duration of rest taken per day, posture while using books, laptops, and phones, working activities, and physical exercises without supervision were identified as contributing factors to MSDs. Interestingly, the study found that the working environment did not significantly affect the prevalence of MSDs. These findings highlight the importance of addressing ergonomic issues and promoting healthy work practices among teachers, especially during periods of remote work.

MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS RISK ASSESSMENT AMONG SMALL TOFU FACTORY WORKERS IN TANGERANG CITY: AN INDONESIAN CASE STUDY

Introduction: Conventional tofu production involves various manual handling tasks which increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). A previous study found a very high risk of MSDs in tofu manufacturing, especially in the filtering task with a REBA score of 13. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the risk of MSDs in tofu factory workers. Methods: Workplace observations and unstructured interviews were conducted at two traditional tofu factories (X and Y) and a more modern silken tofu factory to identify the risk of MSDs. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) method were used to determine the prevalence and risk of MSDs. A total of 52 workers voluntarily participated in this study. Results: The traditional and silken tofu manufacturing processes involved seven and fifteen tasks, respectively. This study found that workers in the traditional tofu factories had a higher prevalence of MSDs than those in the silken tofu factory. In the past 12 months, traditional tofu factory workers reported MSDs in their lower back (94.4%), right shoulder (77.8%), and neck (61.1%). On the other hand, silken tofu factory workers reported MSDs in their lower back (81.3%), right shoulder (62.5%), and upper back region (56.3%). According to the QEC method, grinding and filtering were identified as two tasks with a very high risk of MSDs in the traditional factories. In addition, transferring tofu crates from cold water to hot water tub in the silken factory was identified as a very high risk of MSDs. Conclusion: Intervention is necessary for tasks with a very high risk of MSDs in small tofu factories.

Ergonomic evaluation of working conditions using QEC and ART methods and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in a tile industry

Introduction: The QEC and ART methods are useful tools to identify risk factors that cause work-related musculoskeletal disorders in industries so this research was conducted with the aim of ergonomic evaluation of working conditions using these methods and determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in a tile industry.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, working conditions in a tile industry were evaluated using QEC and ART methods in 2023. Also, the musculoskeletal disorders of 66 workers were recorded using the Nordic questionnaire. The data were transferred to spss software (V.19) and chi-square, independent t-test, Fisher test, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used.&#x0D; Results: The mean and standard deviation of the age of the studied workers was 30.6±6.11 years, work experience was 5.97±4.95 years, and their body mass index was 23.69±3.42. 68% of workers had at least one musculoskeletal discomfort. The most common discomfort was back pain (50%). There was a significant relationship between shoulder, back, leg, and wrist discomfort with work experience (P&lt;0.05). There was also a significant relationship between discomfort in the shoulders and wrists with age (P&lt;0.05). A positive and significant correlation was obtained between the scores of ART and QEC methods (for QEC with right ART r=0.591 P&lt;0.001 and for QEC with left ART r=0.524 and P&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: Considering the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in this industry, it is necessary to modify workstations according to the results of ART and QEC methods.

Musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare workers

Purpose of review Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most relevant occupational problem. The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is found among healthcare workers, with potential adverse consequences for the provision of care and public health. The objective of this study is to identify and synthesize the most recent literature on musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare workers. This could be useful for healthcare decision makers in translating effective interventions into practice. Recent findings The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is high among healthcare workers. The most studied population are nurses, surgeons, dental professionals, and physiotherapists. The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in these professionals is high, especially in the low-back, neck, and shoulders body areas. Physical and technological interventions are effective in reducing the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in the aforementioned body areas. Summary Research on musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare workers is growing, even if mostly descriptive and assessing the point prevalence of this issue. Musculoskeletal disorders represent major public health problems that should be reduced through feasible, cost-effective technological and physical interventions. Future longitudinal and qualitative studies could be valuable in improving knowledge on this complex phenomenon.

Musculoskeletal disorders, associated factors, and literature review for intervention according to gender.

The relationship of risk factors with musculoskeletal disorders and their intervention is a topic of interest, given their prevalence among workers. Thus, analyzing risk factors from approaches such as the gender perspective may be an alternative. To analyze risk factors in a health entity with a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in upper limbs and to describe possible intervention measures according to scientific evidence, from a gender perspective. This is an analytical study. A questionnaire was applied to 93 workers on demographic aspects, presence of factors related to the environment, the task, and the organization, extra-work activities related to musculoskeletal disorders in the upper limbs. Chi-square was used to identify significant relationships between the sex variable and individual, occupational, and non-occupational factors, corroborated by Fisher's test and prevalence ratio. According to the associations identified, a literature review was carried out to establish possible strategies. Significant relationships were found between the sex variable and task-related factors such as the presence of repetitive or sudden movements (p < 0.05), supporting postulates of labor segregation. According to the literature consulted, the effectiveness of activities such as physical preparation and adaptation of the workplace under professional guidance, training activities, and breaks is discussed. It is important to review organizational factors. By identifying significant relationships between the sex variable and task-related factors, the present study contributes to the postulate of labor segregation, in terms of concentration of female labor in activities with particular working conditions. Regarding literature and actions, it is important to generate more studies from this perspective.

Prevalence And Risk Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Discomfort among Vegetable Street Vendors

Background: The common health problem among workers is musculoskeletal disorders due to intensive manualwork(1). Pain, stiffness, swelling are the symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders(1)..High energy expenditures,heavy spinal loading during lifting and carrying, highly repetitive movements and crawling, stooping andother difficult work postures are require at field work and for material handling(14).Aim: To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with musculoskeletal discomfort among vegetablestreet vendors.Objectives: To find out prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in vegetable street vendors by using NordicMusculoskeletal questionnaire.To find out correlation between personal factors, working factors and musculoskeletal discomfort.Materials and methodology: 125 Vegetable vendors were participated in this study. Age range between 18-60years. Subjects having more than 5 years of experience are included.They were given consent form ,screeningform and Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire and the area of pain was marked by them on scale. The data wastaken on excel sheet and data analysis was done then results were calculated.Result: The prevalence of 69.60% was obtained in vegetable street vendors. The most body part involved arelower back 44.80% , ankle/feet 32% ,the least affected body parts are elbows and wrist/hands. The musculoskeletaldiscomfort is positively associated with gender, age and not associated with other factors such asBMI, work experience, working hours/day,working days/week, excessive repetition,sitting for long period atwork,etc.Conclusion: According to the present study there is a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among vegetablestreet vendors in latur city. The commonly affected body region are lower back, ankle/feet and knees.

Sex differences in the impact of musculoskeletal disorders on health-related quality of life: a population-based study, Campinas, SP - ISACamp 2014/15.

This article aims to estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MD) on the adult population of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, verifying associated demographic and socioeconomic factors, and to analyze their impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) according to sex. A population-based study was conducted with 2,166 individuals using data from the ISACamp 2014/15. The Medical Outcomes Study SF-36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to measure HRQoL according to MD. Prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated by Poisson regression. Musculoskeletal disorders had a prevalence of 8.5% (6.7% tendonitis and 2.7% work-related musculoskeletal disorders - WMSD). Results showed a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in women, active or on leave due to illness, and in individuals with higher education levels. Moreover, reduced HRQoL scores were observed in 6 of the 8 domains, due to MD. The mental component and physical component showed greater impairment respectively among women and men after self-reported WMSD. These findings point to substantial damage from musculoskeletal disorders on the population's HRQoL. WMSD affect the HRQoL of men and women distinctly.