Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire Research Articles

Exploring Musculoskeletal Injuries Among Informal and Formal Carers of People With Dementia.

Carers of people with dementia manually handle the care recipients (eg, repetitive lifting, transferring, and pulling) as part of the care service, increasing the musculoskeletal injury risk to themselves. We aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries among informal and formal carers of people with dementia and the perceived associated risk factors. Primary carers of people with dementia (26 males and 141 females) from Dementia Care Centers and Home Care programs completed a questionnaire providing information about (a) the carers' and their care recipients' characteristics, (b) musculoskeletal symptoms (via the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire) and related aspects, and (c) the caregiving activities exposing the carers to risk of musculoskeletal injury. Our results showed that 69.7% of informal and 86.7% of formal carers reported having more than 1 musculoskeletal injury, while 63.1% and 61.5%, respectively, reported having a musculoskeletal injury in the last year. Lower back had the highest injury prevalence (>10% for both groups). The 2 carer groups were not different in any of the variables. Our results reinforce calls for education and support of carers, regardless of their formal status, to enable injury-free and prolonged service provision.

Cross-cultural adaptation, validation and psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire in office working population from Saudi Arabia

BackgroundOffice-workers who suffer from musculoskeletal pain/disability may experience reduced productivity and absenteeism from work. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) is a valid, simple screening tool for the history and presence of self-perceived musculoskeletal symptoms in both general public and occupational settings. ObjectiveTo translate and culturally adapt the NMQ into Arabic language and examine its psychometric properties. MethodsThe published guidelines were followed to translate and adapt the NMQ into Arabic using a forward-backward process. Construct validity involved comparing NMQ responses with disability-related musculoskeletal questionnaires in different body regions, including the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Quick-Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick-DASH), and Reduced Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (ArWOMAC). The reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency and prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) for test–retest reliability. ResultsThe Arabic NMQ (Ar-NMQ) revealed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.85). For the test-retest reliability, the PABAK coefficient ranged between 0.50 and 1. The Ar-NMQ demonstrated strong construct validity. Participants reporting neck pain showed significantly elevated disability scores on the NDI (p < 0.05), while those with back pain exhibited higher ODI scores (p < 0.05). Moreover, individuals reporting shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain and disability displayed elevated Quick-DASH scores (p < 0.05). Similarly, participants reporting hip/thighs, knees, and ankle/feet pain/disability demonstrated significantly higher disability in ArWOMAC (p < 0.05). ConclusionThe NMQ was successfully translated and adapted into Arabic language, providing a reliable and valid instrument for assessing pain in specific body regions in the Arabic-speaking population.

Role of serum estradiol and C-telopeptide on musculoskeletal pain in menopausal women

Musculoskeletal pain is one of the common symptoms of menopause syndrome throughout the world. Estradiol is the most potent and abundant derivative of estrogen and is associated with musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, and depressed mood during the menopausal transition. C-telopeptide is a molecule released during osteoclastic bone resorption and degradation of type I collagen, which is reported to have higher levels in individuals with musculoskeletal pain. An observational analytical study with a cross-sectional design was used in this research. Estradiol and C-telopeptide levels were measured in this study using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Musculoskeletal pain was assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the Menopause Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL). Musculoskeletal pain was determined if the participant answered “yes” on questions number 12, 14 and 25 on the MENQOL. Data analysis was performed using the independent Student t-test for normally distributed data and the Mann-Whitney test for non-normally distributed data. A correlation test was performed using the Pearson correlation test for normally distributed data and the Spearman correlation test for non-normally distributed data. The results showed a non-significant relationship between estradiol and C-telopeptide levels with musculoskeletal pain assessed using the NMQ or MENQOL questionnaires. The correlation test also showed no correlation between estradiol and C-telopeptide levels in women with and without musculoskeletal pain.

Musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry: the contribution of age, gender, body mass index and physical activity level

Objectives. This study aimed to investigate 12-month and 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry, and assess the contribution of age, gender, body mass index (BMI) and physical activity (PA). Methods. The sample comprised 904 workers. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed using the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. χ 2 tests assessed the association between musculoskeletal symptoms and age/gender/BMI/PA, and multivariate logistic regression models predicted the 12-month occurrence of symptoms in the five most prevalent regions. Results. The five most affected body regions were the lower back, shoulders, neck, knees and wrists/hands. Older workers presented more symptoms in all body regions, except dorsal; female gender was associated with neck symptoms (p = 0.001); overweight was associated with a higher prevalence of lower back (p = 0.01), knee (p = 0.017) and ankle/foot (p = 0.037) symptoms; and a moderate PA level was associated with thigh/hip symptoms (p = 0.006). Age was a significant predictor in all five most affected regions; gender was a significant predictor for shoulders, neck and wrists/hands; and BMI was a significant predictor for lower back symptoms. Conclusion. The 12-month and 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry is higher in the lower back, shoulders, neck, knees and wrists/hands.

Evaluation of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire for Measuring Prevalence and the Consequence of Pain in a Danish Adult OI Population: A Pilot Study.

Pain is a challenge in persons with OI and causes much concern in the Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) population. We aim to evaluate the usability of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) to identify painful sites in adults with OI and to describe the occurrence of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain and its impact on their work and daily activities. This cross-sectional pilot study uses the OI-NMQ to study MSK pain prevalence in nine separate anatomical regions (neck, upper back, lower back, shoulder, elbow, hand/wrist, hip, knee, and ankle/foot) and its impact on regular work and daily activities in adults with OI. The questionnaire was distributed among participants of the 2023 annual meeting of The Danish OI Society. The response rate was 68%, and all participants considered the OI-NMQ helpful in assessing the presence of pain and its consequences. The analysis included 27 adults with OI type I, III, or IV above 18years. Among all 27 participants, MSK pain was present in 15-56% of the 9 sites within the last 7days and 33-89% of the nine anatomical regions during the last 12months. In 7-48% of all the participants, their regular work and daily activities had been affected by the presence of MSK pain. The OI-NMQ was feasible in assessing MSK pain among adults with OI and displayed a high prevalence of MSK pain with a moderate impact on their regular work and daily activities in this OI population. A larger and repeated measurement of MSK pain in adults with OI is needed to confirm these results.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Railway Employees: A Survey Study

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) related with repetitive and demanding working conditions continue to represent one of the biggest problems in industrialized countries. The railway employees have high possibility of showing musculoskeletal pain due to repetitive motions, lifting heavy loads, awkward posture which leads to bending and twisting injuries and static posture for long duration during. Aim and Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders in railway employees. Methodology: The study was conducted among 100 railway employees. The data was collected using self-administered Questionnaire, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Perceived Stress Scale. Both male and female employees having at least 1 year of experience were includes. Result and Conclusion: the 12-month prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among railway employees was 79%. Low back pain (26.6%) was found to be most prevalent followed by neck pain (22.8%) and knee pain (20.3%). The Gangmans/trackmans and Sahayaks were identified to have maximum impact which led to WMSDs. The occurrence of MSD was associated with factors such as age, nature of work, working hours, lifting, and lowering heavy loads, working at pace set by machine and prolonged standing. Thus, education about ergonomics and body posture awareness would be instrumented in prevention of MSDs, thus are recommended. Keywords: Prevalence, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Risk Factors, Railway Employees.

PREVALENCE AND PATTERN OF WORK-RELATED DISORDER AMONG OIL AND GAS WORKERS IN KADUNA REFINERY, NIGERIA

This study examined the frequency and distribution of musculoskeletal problems among Kaduna Refining and Petrochemicals Company Limited (KRPC) engineers, desk workers, security. Data for the study were gathered using a modified online version of the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. The prevalence and patterns of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) were assessed and data from a survey given to KRPC employees was analyzed using SPSS. According to the survey, there were 62.4% of MSD cases among KRPC employees overall over 12 months. The prevalence of MSD was highest for lower back (%), followed by upper back (%) and the wrist (%). Years of experience and MSD were significantly associated (P &gt;0.05). Employees with 16 to 25 years of work experience had a very high prevalence of MSD (84.9%). The power plant and quality control (PPQ and C) departments as well as the maintenance department had the highest rates of MSD. The findings can be used by KRPC management and any other refinery to address MSD problems among its employees and to close a gap in the body of knowledge regarding how MSD affects refinery workers in general.

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

Burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic among nurses in Taiwan: the parental role effect on burnout

BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, medical workers were concerned about the care of their children or family members and the impact of being separated from them. This increased stress could harm the relationship between nurses and patients. This study assessed how medical workers’ parental role may affect burnout during such a high-stress period.MethodsThis cross-sectional observational study was carried out in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The client burnout (CB) scale of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and a demographic questionnaire were used. Statistical methods such as the t-test, one-way ANOVA, and univariable/multiple linear regression were applied.ResultsA total of 612 nurses were included in this study. The likely risk factors of CB were identified and the parenthood effect was found to be associated with reduced CB. The parental role and leisure activity with family and friends on CB were found to have an impact. Engaging in leisure activity with family and playing the role of a parent diligently will help relieve nurses’ burnout from frequent contact with patients and their families, thus lowering the risk of clinical burnout.ConclusionThe parental role, family/friends relationships, and a complex work environment associated with nurses’ burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding allows us to re-examine the importance of family life and parent–child relationships in high-stress work environments.

Efficacy of a new protocol for the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in dental hygiene students: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

The purpose of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to assess the efficacy of a new muscle stretching and strengthening protocol for the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) in dental hygiene students. Students attending the 2nd and 3rd year of a Dental Hygiene Degree Course of a University Hospital were randomly allocated into treatment group (muscle stretching and strengthening sessions) and control group (no treatment). Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), quality of life, the intensity of the pain and the Global Perceived Effect (GPE) Scale were assessed at the baseline (T0), after 4 weeks (T1) and after 16 weeks (T2). Of 37 subjects screened for eligibility, 28 patients (aged 28.25 ± 8.89 years) were enrolled and divided into treatment and control groups. The NWQ showed significant between-group differences in the following regions from T0 to T2: neck (p = 0.0003), shoulders (p = 0.0057) and lower back (p = 0.0136). In terms of pain, a significant between-group difference was reported from T2 (p < 0.001). The GPE demonstrated that the average satisfaction related to the performed treatment was 1.4 ± 0.63. The present pilot RCT demonstrated the efficacy of stretching associated with muscle strengthening in decreasing the risk of WMSD, especially for the neck, shoulders and lower back. The potential strength of this model is related to the possibility to perform stretching exercises chairside at work during scheduled breaks, in addition to complementary muscle strengthening sessions at home. Future RCTs are necessary to better investigate the role of this protocol for WMSD prevention.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among weavers working in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: cross-sectional study design

BackgroundWork-related musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common public health problems throughout the world. It is a major cause of occupational injury, illness, and disability that leads to an increased rate of sick leave, financial costs for both individuals and society and the health care system. Weavers are among the populations exposed to musculoskeletal disorders due to a lack of occupational safety, health services, and poor working conditions. Yet, little is known about WMSD among weavers in Africa particularly in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among weavers.MethodA multi-centered institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia among 424 weavers with a response rate of 97.7%. Participants were recruited randomly after proportional allocation was done for each institution and face-to-face interviews were employed to collect data using a well-structured questionnaire adopted from the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire and different literature. The data were entered into Epidata and analyzed using SPSS version (Choobineh A, Lahmi M, Shahnavaz H, Khani Jazani R, Hosseini M. Int J Occup Saf Ergon, 10:157–68, 2004). Variables with a P-value < 0.25 in the bivariate logistic regression were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model. Finally, variables with an AOR, a 95% confidence interval, and a P-value of < 0.05 were reported.ResultThe annual prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among weavers was 76.3% [CI = 72.2 to 80.2%]. Longer working hours [AOR = 3.48, CI = (1.96–6.21)] lack of back support during sitting [AOR = 2.50 (1.293–4.480)], having repetitive movement in weaving [AOR = 4.11(2.029–8.324)], attaining awkward posture [AOR = 3.37(1.875–6.059)] and job stress [AOR = 4.37(2.447–7.816)] was significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.ConclusionsThis study revealed a high prevalence of WMSDs among weavers. Our study findings reported that longer working hours, lack of back support during sitting, having repetitive movement in weaving attaining awkward posture, and having job stress were significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Ergonomic benefit using heads-up display compared to conventional surgical microscope in Japanese ophthalmologists.

Occupational musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in ophthalmic surgeons and can impact surgeons' well-being and productivity. Heads-up displays may reduce ergonomic stress compared to conventional microscopes. This cross-sectional, non-interventional study compared ergonomic experience between heads-up display and conventional ocular microscopes. The study protocol was approved by the independent ethics committee and nonprofit organization MINS Institutional Review Board. An online questionnaire was distributed to a sample of ophthalmic surgeons in Japan with experience operating with heads-up display. The questionnaire captured surgeon-specific variables, the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and custom questions to compare heads-up display and conventional microscope and understand long-term impacts of musculoskeletal disorders. Analysis was conducted on responses from 67 surgeons with a mean 25 years of practice and 2.7 years using heads-up display. Many surgeons agreed or strongly agreed that heads-up display reduced the severity (40%) and frequency (40%) of pain and discomfort, improved posture (61%), and improved overall comfort (61%). Of respondents who experienced asthenopia (n = 59) or pain/discomfort during operation (n = 61), 54% reported improvement in asthenopia and 72% reported feeling less pain/discomfort since using heads-up display. Overall, 69% reported preference for heads-up display. This study provides novel data on musculoskeletal disorders and the long-term impacts of ergonomic strain reported by ophthalmologists building on existing literature demonstrating ergonomic and other advantages of heads-up display. Future studies with objective ergonomic assessment are warranted to validate these findings.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Pain in Hospital Employees

Aim: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common health problems in the community. They lead to various levels of pain, loss of function, and deterioration in quality of life. Our aim is to evaluate work-related musculoskeletal pain in hospital employees and factors that could prevent this problem. Material and Method: Female and male hospital employees working in different departments of our hospital participated in the study. Demographic data, work and working environment, ergonomic training, and musculoskeletal pain were queried. The severity of pain in those experiencing it was assessed using the visual analog scale and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results: A total of 275 individuals participated in the study. 72.4% of the participants were female and 27.6% were male. 79.3% of the participants reported musculoskeletal pain. Pain was most commonly (71.3%) observed in the 35-54 age group and was of moderate severity. According to the frequency of pain, it was most common in the back (61.5%), followed by the lower back (55.6%) and neck (53.5%) regions. The presence and severity of pain were more pronounced in females (p

Work-related musculoskeletal complaints: risk factors and impact on work productivity among university administrative employees

BackgroundWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant workplace problem leading to loss of productivity and disability. Administrative workers perform computer-based tasks for long periods. Consequently, they are at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to explore the frequency and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal complaints and their impact on work productivity among administrative employees of Suez Canal University, Egypt.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 administrative employees through simple random sampling. Data were collected by an interview questionnaire including sociodemographic, work-related data, ergonomic and psychological risk factors, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (HPQ).ResultsThe frequency of work-related musculoskeletal complaints in at least one anatomical region over the past year was 74.7%. Neck (47.1%), lower back (40.7%), and shoulder (36.3%) were the most reported sites of complaints. Risk factors significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal complaints were gender, age, physical activity, work experience, workplace stress, sustained body position, awkward posture, and inadequate rest breaks. Logistic regression revealed that older age (OR = 1.039, p = 0.023), being female (OR = 2.175, p = 0.011), and not having adequate rest breaks (OR = 1.979, p = 0.019) were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. The risk factors of absenteeism include gender, age, marital status, educational level, physical activity, BMI, work experience, and musculoskeletal complaints.ConclusionMusculoskeletal problems were highly prevalent among administrative employees. Being female and not having adequate rest breaks were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. Ergonomic interventions and improvement of working conditions are recommended to reduce WMSDs.

Reducing musculoskeletal disorders in iron ore mine operators: A fuzzy-based intervention approach.

This study focuses on evaluating the exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) and association of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) with various risk factors among dumper operators in the mining industry. Despite the issue's significance, prior research has been limited. The study introduces a novel fuzzy-based approach for identifying, selecting, and prioritizing safety measures to mitigate MSD risks. Data collection comprised face-to-face interviews, anthropometric measurements, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) scoring for posture assessment, and the Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire for assessment of MSD prevalence. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to analyse the contributing risk factors to MSDs and WBV exposure. These risk factors formed the basis for a practical approach to select appropriate safety measures based on fuzzy based aggregation method of expert's judgment aimed at mitigating the risk of MSDs. The results revealed that the risk factors such as poor work posture, WBV exposure and poor seat design were significantly associated with neck (adjusted odds ratio aOR = 4.81), upper limb and shoulder (aOR = 3.28), upper back (aOR = 5.09), and lower back pain (aOR = 3.67) at p < 0.05. Using these factors to formulate safety measures to reduce MSD risk, the minimization of sharp turns and abrupt changes in elevation in designing the haul roads, scheduled maintenance practices, and ergonomic seat design were found as important safety measures in this study. Our unique methodological approach in occupational health research could be highly beneficial for tailoring safety measures at the unit level with minimal effort.

Physical and Environmental Work Exposures and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Beekeepers: A Descriptive Study

Purpose: Beekeepers are at risk of musculoskeletal disorders while working, though research is scarce in this field. This study assessed beekeepers' physical and environmental occupational exposure and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. Material and Methods: The study was conducted with 123 male individuals who had been actively beekeeping for a minimum of one year. Beekeepers were administered a survey that included demographic and occupational questions. Beekeepers responded to the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and questions related to beekeeping activity from the Quick Exposure Check. Results: The mean age of the beekeepers was 45.4±12.3 years. The present study revealed that migratory beekeepers encountered a greater number of demanding circumstances in comparison to stationary beekeepers (p

Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Training on Ergonomic Risks of Measuring Blood Pressure.

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) occur as a result of long-term exposure to inappropriate working postures and repetitive use of body postures, leading to harmful consequences for patients, employees, and employers. Evaluating distinct working postures can contribute to effective interventions. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine ergonomic risks of MSDs during repeated blood pressure measurement processes and to evaluate the effectiveness of a training on this topic. Methods: A pretest/posttest quasi-experimental design studied 64 nurses in a training and research hospital in Turkey. Participants were evaluated for the prevalence and risk of MSDs using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire Extended Version and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) Checklist, and by photographing them performing the procedure. Nurses with high risk for MSDs received an ergonomics training program and were followed up twice in 3 months. Results: Reduction in prevalence of MSDs in neck, shoulder, and hip/thigh areas, and in mean REBA scores after the training were statistically significant. Conclusion: Nurses should be trained about correct posture for specific high-risk activities that may cause MSDs, and offered exercise programs that support the musculoskeletal system.

Patterns of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Staff Nurses in the Emergency Department in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: The physically demanding and high-stress environment of Emergency Departments (EDs) significantly contributes to the heightened risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among ED nurses. Despite this known association, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the prevalence rates and contributing factors within ED settings in Saudi Arabia, necessitating further investigation.Purpose: This study delves into the prevalence and potential predictors of MSDs among nurses in this critical healthcare setting.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in March 2023 using convenience sampling of 177 ED nurses across 16 public hospitals in Hail, Saudi Arabia. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was employed, with SPSS analyses covering frequency and percentage of pain prevalence via cross-tabulation, and logistic regression to identify risk factors.Results: Over the past year, 68.9% of participants reported lower back pain affecting normal activities in 55.4% of cases. Neck pain was more likely in individuals aged 20-29 and former smokers accounting for 47.6% of the variance (p=0.001). Shorter shifts under 8 hours reduced neck pain risk, whereas a schedule with 50% of night shifts heightened the risk, contributing to 28.4% of the variance (p=0.001). Nurses aged 40-49 and those with significant childcare duties faced higher shoulder pain risk (p=0.024), and adult caregiving duties was linked to upper back pain explaining 40.6% of the variance (p=0.017). No significant links were found for other musculoskeletal pains.Conclusion: The study reveals a significant prevalence of MSDs among the evaluated ED nurses, significantly influenced by specific demographic and work-related factors. Addressing these through ergonomic interventions, optimal scheduling, and wellness programs is crucial for nurse well-being and patient care. Future research should focus on creating holistic wellness programs that support nurses musculoskeletal health.

Assessment and evaluation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nuclear medicine professionals in India: A cross-sectional study.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a severe occupational health issue among medical radiation practitioners. It is mostly linked to personal protective wear, working posture, tools employed and ergonomics. To assess and evaluate the musculoskeletal disorders among nuclear medicine professionals (NMP) in India. An online survey was distributed to 455 NMP throughout India between November 2021 and March 2022 covering the demographic characteristics and questions for evaluation of musculoskeletal symptoms using the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Participants with any pre-existing musculoskeletal disorder or trauma were excluded. Descriptive statistics summarized the data from the demographics, discomfort, aches and work-related musculoskeletal injuries. Chi-square test was used to examine the association between the obtained values. 91 out of 124 respondents were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results shows that there is a significant association between the height of the individual and neck pain, body mass index and elbows pain, age and low back pain, experience in the current work and upper back pain, the weight of the individual and knee pain, use of mobile lead screens and shoulder pain, use of gonad shield, trouble in the ankles and use of lead screens, and QC phantoms for gamma camera / PET and wrists/hands pain. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among NMP are resulting from factors of individual demographic variables (such as age, height, weight, body mass index), years of experience at the current workplace and of using instruments in their work area.

The prevalence, patterns and factors associated with work related musculoskeletal symptoms among surgical residents in Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya

Background: In the medical sector, surgeons work in an environment that is not ergonomically ideal, and many suffer work-related musculoskeletal symptoms that may result in reduced quality of life, disability, and diminished career longevity. While data exists on musculoskeletal symptoms in practising surgeons, this is not the case for trainee surgeons. Objective: To determine the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among surgical residents working in Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was done to determine the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among surgical residents working in Kenyatta National Hospital. An electronic questionnaire based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was sent to all participants via electronic messaging. Results: Two hundred and seventeen responses were received. The overall prevalence of workrelated musculoskeletal symptoms was 93%. The most commonly affected anatomic region was the lower back (68%) followed by the neck (47%). Residents from the thematic units of urology, paediatric surgery and general surgery had a 100% prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms. Residents from plastic surgery and ophthalmology units had the lowest prevalence rates (83% and 84% respectively). Neck symptoms were associated with using loupes (OR, 2.9, p=0.02) and microscopes (OR, 2.2, p=0.05). Female gender was associated with wrist/hand symptoms (OR, 3.84, p=0.01). Increasing age was associated with symptoms in the neck (OR, 1.22 p=0.002) and lower back (OR, 1.15 p=0.03). No association was found between overall prevalence and thematic unit (p=0.13), year of study (p=0.903) or hours in theatre (p=0.97). Conclusion and recommendations: Surgical residents experience a significantly high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms. Urology, paediatric surgery and general surgery residents had the highest overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms.