High Prevalence Of Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

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.
 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.
 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.
 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.
 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.
 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<0.05). There was also a significant relationship between discomfort in the shoulders and wrists with age (P<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<0.001 and for QEC with left ART r=0.524 and P<0.001).
 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.

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.

Risk of Manual Handling and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Rice Mill Workers in Northern Iran

Background: Nowadays, a large proportion of work-related activities are performed manually, which has led to an increase in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aims to assess the risk of manual material handling (MMH) and estimate the prevalence of MSDs among workers in rice mills in the northern part of the country.
 Methods: The study was conducted on 100 workers employed in 36 rice mills in Gilan Province using the census method. The Nordic questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, while the NIOSH equation, Snook table, KIM-LHC and MAC assessment methods were used to evaluate the risk of related activities. Data were then analysed using chi-squared test and Spss23 software.
 Results: The results of the KIM-LHC and MAC lifting methods showed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower limb during lifting. Similarly, there was a statistically significant relationship (P=0.001 and P=0.002) between the Mac and Snook lifting methods. However, there was no significant relationship between the Niosh method and either the Kim-LHC or Mac-Lifting methods (P=0.10 and P=0.28).
 Conclusion: The results of the risk assessment using different methods showed a consistent and critical condition of the working environment in the rice mills studied. Therefore, it is imperative to take the necessary engineering and management control measures to improve the working conditions.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal disorders among firefighters

Introduction: Due to the nature of their job, firefighters face many ergonomic risk factors and are exposed to several musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among firefighters. Materials and methods: This study was conducted based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, SID, ISC and Google Scholar without applying a time limitation until the end of July 2022. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I2 index was used to check heterogeneity among studies. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software. Results: The primary literature searches in the databases identified 1,291 articles, 26 of which were entered the meta-analysis stage after screening, study selection, and quality assessment, including 36,342 firefighters. Based on the results of a meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of MSDs among firefighters was 46.39% (95% CI: 32.45–60.32, I2 = 99.7%, P < 0.001). The prevalence of MSDs was also investigated at neck (18.36%), low back (34.32%), shoulder (18.68%), hands (7.43%), upper back (10.15%), knee (19.97%) and foot (6.66%). Conclusion: Considering the relatively high prevalence of MSDs among firefighters and their higher exposition to specific job-related risk factors of MSDs compared to other professions, it is suggested to provide firefighters with appropriate training, implement ergonomic interventions, and regularly screen them to reduce MSDs.

High Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dental Professionals: A Study on Ergonomics and Workload in Yemen.

BACKGROUND Dentists frequently have work-related musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) diseases, which are the profession's second most common cause of disability. Awareness of dental ergonomics is necessary for controlling MSDs associated with dental workload. Dental professionals need additional training in dental ergonomics to reduce serious complications associated with dental workload. This questionnaire-based study aimed to evaluate the understanding of physical ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders in 310 dental health professionals and students in Yemen. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 dental professionals working in various clinics and universities in Sana'a City, Yemen. They received a self-administered questionnaire that was developed from earlier studies. Five sections made up the questionnaire. The first section of the survey included questions about sex, age, and clinical professions; the second section focused on ergonomic awareness; the third section asked about work conditions; the fourth section asked about the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders; and the fifth section asked about interventions used. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, and a P value of ≤0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Only 310 questionnaires were completed. The participants'; level of understanding of ergonomics was low. One-way ANOVA showed a significant portion of respondents reported having MSDs, and they frequently reported pain related to workload. The neck, lower back, upper back, and shoulders experienced the highest levels of pain. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of MSDs was high among dental professionals, especially in the lower back, upper back, and shoulder. This necessitates preventive measures like ergonomic positions, ergonomic equipment, regular exercise, and work breaks.

Preventing work-related musculoskeletal injuries among oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) are continually required to adjust position and posture to access the limited surgical field in and around the head and neck, oral cavity, and oropharynx. Very limited data exists that quantifies the burden of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among OMS. This exploratory study seeks to address these literature gaps by assessing the prevalence of MSD among OMS. A 12-question survey was designed to investigate the prevalence of MSD for OMS, including residents in training, actively practicing surgeons, and retired surgeons. Seventy-six surveys were distributed and completed in person by surgeons attending professional conferences from September 2018-September 2019. Survey questions included the Baker-Wong Faces pain scale, years in practice, number of hours worked per week, job tenure, pain attributable to work, and age. The Nordic scale identified and delineated anatomic site of musculoskeletal complaints, duration and treatment sought. The most frequently cited sources and locations of pain attributable to occupation were shoulders, neck, and lower back. The risk of MSD symptoms was relatively two-fold [PR = 2.54, 95% CI = 0.90, 7.22] among OMS in practice for more than ten years compared to those in practice less than ten years. After adjusting for age and hours worked per week as potential confounders, the risk of MSD symptoms was higher among OMS in practice for more than ten years compared to those with less than ten years of experience, despite no statistically significant association. OMS are impacted by a high prevalence of MSD. The neck, shoulder, and lower back are the most frequently affected with discomfort and pain. This study found that practicing oral and maxillofacial surgery for more than 10 years is a potential risk factor for experiencing MSD.

Musculoskeletal disorders related to the working environment in the slaughter sector of a meatpacking plant

Introduction: Meat processing plants play a fundamental role in the processing and slaughtering of animals, and the working environment in these establishments has specific characteristics that can affect the health and well-being of workers. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze musculoskeletal disorders related to the working environment in the slaughtering sector of a specific slaughterhouse. The main ergonomic risk factors and their association with the occurrence of these disorders will be investigated. Methodology: This is a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive study, which analyzed ergonomic risks in the slaughter sector, using a structured questionnaire. The sample consisted of 49 employees in the slaughter sector of a meatpacking plant in Minas Gerais. As a research instrument, the "Nordic Musculoskeletal Symptoms" questionnaire was applied from May 22 to 26, 2023, based on an analysis of the employees' intense routine Results: The results of this study reveal a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among slaughterhouse workers. The most affected body regions include the cervical region, shoulders, arms, forearms, wrists, hands, fingers, dorsal region, lumbar region and hips/lower limbs. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results of this study highlight the worrying prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among slaughterhouse workers. The incidence of pain in the various body regions analyzed highlights the need to implement preventive and intervention measures, such as ergonomic strategies, ergonomic training and postural support, in order to reduce the impact of these disorders on workers' health and well-being.

Breastfeeding Education and the Role of Physical Therapy: A Cross-sectional Survey

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the level of breastfeeding (BF) knowledge and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders associated with BF among mothers. Materials and Methods: The participants were given a questionnaire containing 20 questions regarding their knowledge of BF practices and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. The responses were reported as mean, standard deviation (SD), number (n), frequencies (f), and percentages (%). Results: The study included 941 participants aged 18 to 49, with a median age of 31-35. Nearly half (47.9%; n = 451) of participants had no knowledge of the health advantages of BF. Furthermore, 82.6% (n = 777) of participants did not receive educational courses or information about childbirth during pregnancy or postnatal. Moreover, 42.7% (n = 402) reported BF-related musculoskeletal pain. The results showed that the least common information provided by doctors or other healthcare providers to mothers was that BF could reduce the risk of some types of cancer (13.6%; n = 128) and asthma and shortness of breath in children (14.1%; n = 133). The most common information was that breastfed children are at a lower risk of getting sick than formula-fed children (41.7%; n = 392). Conclusions: The study showed a lack of knowledge regarding the benefits of BF and a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among BF mothers in Saudi Arabia. We strongly recommend increasing the number of educational courses that provide knowledge and skills related to BF practices and appropriate positioning during BF.

Evaluation of the physical condition and the amount of musculoskeletal disorders in Ganjovian using the REBA and ROSA methods Dezful hospital employees

Introduction: The most common occupational diseases are musculoskeletal disorders that happen with improper body posture while performing job duties. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and evaluate the physical condition of hospital employees using REBA and ROSA methods.&#x0D; Materials and methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 125 employees of Dezful teaching hospital, selected by stratified random sampling method. Musculoskeletal disorders were assessed using the Nordic questionnaire, and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA)، and Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) methods were used to assess physical condition. The normality of the data was checked using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS version 23 software.&#x0D; Results: The average age and work experience were 36.49±8.26 and 7.33±11.8 years, respectively. The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was related to the neck (47.7%) and wrist (40.4%), and the lowest was the elbow (7.8%). According to the REBA score, 18.3% of posture workers needed immediate corrections, and 37.8% needed corrections as soon as possible. According to the ROSA score, in 75.8% of the tasks, the work environment should be re-evaluated. There was a significant relationship (P-value&lt;0.05) between wrist, shoulder, and neck disorders with gender, height, age, work history, and posture.&#x0D; Conclusion: Considering the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and the high level of risk among employees, it is recommended to modify the workstation and train employees.

Prevalence and Pattern of Musculoskeletal Disorder in Panteka Mechanic Village, Kaduna

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are illnesses that make working people disabled and generate significant economic loss worldwide. Automobile mechanics are at risk of injury at the onset of MSDs due to repetitive tasks, uncomfortable posture, and heavy lifting of objects. The frequency and pattern of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among auto mechanics in Panteka Village, Kaduna State, are investigated in this study. Using a version of the standard Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire, a quatitative method was used to gather data on the prevalence pattern of musculoskeletal illnesses at Panteka Village. To analyze the data obtained, purposive sampling method was employed. The study found that there was a high prevalence of MSDs among auto mechanics in Panteka village, with rates of 90% (Neck), 92.3% (shoulder), 56.4% (knee) and over 70% prevalence of MSD for lower and upper back. The results of relationship between age of respondents, years spent as a mechanic and prevalence of the musculoskeletal disorders showed no significant relationship. However, there was a significant relationship between the respondent's section of mechanic activities ie the nature of their job and MSD. These are primarily the result of poor ergonomics and insufficient rest periods at their workshop. Also, manual handling of heavy loads, repetitive tasks and force exertion were the identified factors. Ergonomic and MSD awareness among workers should be increased through training. In addition, govermnents should investigate more in other to reduce or eliminate risk factors leading to musculoskeletal disorders. Members of the Panteka village committee can use the research's findings to enhance the working environment for mechanics. Therefore, Mechanics will need to be educated more on risk factors associated with MSDs.

Assessing the Fitness of Physiotherapy Postgraduate Students Coping with the Future Job Demand

Background &amp; purpose: Physical fitness is a state of health and well-being and, more specifically, the ability toperform aspects of sports, occupations, and daily activities. Physical fitness is generally achieved through propernutrition, moderate-vigorous physical exercise and sufficient rest. The study’s objectives were to measure theupper limb and lower limb flexibility, strength of upper limb, lower limb and aerobic fitness of the Postgraduatestudents in Bengaluru using tests and to assess the coping of Postgraduate physiotherapy students towards the jobdemands, physical exercise and fitness.Method: This study included subjects between the ages of 21 – 30 years of physiotherapy postgraduate students.Subjects were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 117subjects. Demographic data were collected, Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, Physical Activity Readiness -questionnaire (PAR-Q) and Physiotherapy student occupational health and safety questionnaire was used, andBMI, skinfold, waist to hip ratio, shoulder flexibility test, sit and reach test, push-up test, single leg wall sit test andHarvard step test were used to find the level of physical fitness.Results: Self-perceived fitness level among 117 subjects was 16.2% good, 68.4% moderate, and 15.4% poor. It wasobserved that the prevalence of neck trouble in the last 12 months was 50.42%, trouble during the last 7 days was34.18 %, and ADL affected in the last 12 months was 13.67%.Conclusion: The present study showed that self-perceived fitness was moderate level, and health-related fitnessevaluation findings showed poor fitness among physiotherapy postgraduate students. There was the highestprevalence of musculoskeletal disorders at the neck. The musculoskeletal pain seen among postgraduate studentsmay affect their task performance and hinder work efficiency

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Occupational Musculoskeletal Disorders among the Nurses of a Tertiary Care Center of Nepal

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or pain in the human musculoskeletal system which could lead to temporary or permanent impairments. The nature of nursing jobs makes nurses vulnerable to MSDs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and potential risk factors associated with MSDs among nurses. Methods: In between March to June 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 165 nurses using self-administered questionnaires. A standardized Nordic Questionnaire was used to measure MSDs. Pearson’s chi-square test and binary logistic regression at a 5% level of significance were performed to identify factors associated with upper extremities and spinal musculoskeletal disorders (UMSD) and lower extremities musculoskeletal disorders (LMSD). Variables associated with UMSD and LMSD in bivariate analysis were subjected to multiple logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of UMSD and LMSD experienced by nurses was 86.1% (95% CI: 79.4%-90.9%) and 66.1% (95% CI: 58.9%-74.3%), respectively. Among several factors, working in same position for long periods (AOR: 4.16, 95% CI: 1.2-13.4), not receiving training in injury prevention programs (AOR: 3.15, 95% CI: 1.0-9.2), not enough rest breaks during the day (AOR: 4.65, 95% CI: 1.3-15.9) and moderate to higher job stress (AOR: 3.62, 95% CI: 1.2-10.8) were found to be significantly associated with UMSD. Not having enough rest breaks during the day (AOR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.0-4.7) was significantly associated with LMSD. Conclusion: Higher prevalence of MSDs among nurses is a serious concern that threatens individual health as well as the overall healthcare system. Sensitization and capacity enhancement programs on the issue could prevent MSDs among nurses.