Occurrence Of Musculoskeletal Complaints Research Articles

Time trends of major headache diagnoses and predictive factors. Data from three Nord-Tr\xf8ndelag health surveys

AimsThe primary aim of this study was to investigate time trends of major headache diagnoses using cross-sectional data from two population-based health surveys. In addition, we aimed to perform a longitudinal assessment of baseline characteristics and subsequent risk for having headache at 22-years’ follow-up among those participating in three health surveys.MethodsData from the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) performed in 1995–1997 (HUNT2), 2006–2008 (HUNT3) and 2017–2019 (HUNT4) were used. The 1-year prevalence time trends of major headache diagnoses were estimated among 41,460 participants in HUNT4 and among 39,697 participants in HUNT3, two surveys with identical headache questions. 16,118 persons participated in all three surveys, and among these, a Poisson regression was used to evaluate health-related baseline information in HUNT2 and the risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs) of consistently reporting headache during follow-up.ResultsCompared with the 1-year prevalence in HUNT3, a higher proportion of participants in HUNT4 had tension-type headache (20.7% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001), whereas a lower 1-year prevalence was found for migraine (11.1% vs. 12.0%, p < 0.001) and medication overuse headache (MOH) (0.3% vs. 1.0%, p < 0.001). Participants in the age group 20–39 years at baseline nearly three times increased risk (RR = 2.8, 95% CI 2.5–3.1) of reporting headache in HUNT2, HUNT3 and HUNT4 than persons aged 50 years or more. Female sex, occurrence of chronic musculoskeletal complaints and high score of depression or anxiety at baseline doubled the risk of having headache in all three surveys.ConclusionsThe 1-year prevalence of migraine and MOH was lower in HUNT4 than in HUNT3. Young age, female sex, and occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints and high score of anxiety and/or depression were all associated with substantially increased risk of reporting headache in all three surveys.

Musculoskeletal complaints, absenteeism and associated factors among cytotechnologists: cross-sectional study.

Cytotechnologists are laboratory professionals who analyze cytology slides under optical microscopes. Static postures, speed and repetitive movements are associated with occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints. To establish the main musculoskeletal complaints among cytotechnologists at the National Cancer Institute, Brazil, test associations between absenteeism due to musculoskeletal complaints and individual and occupational variables, and characterize absenteeism related to diseases of the musculoskeletal system in 2016 and 2017. Cross-sectional study in which we administered the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and tested associations between exposure variables and absenteeism. We also analyzed morbidity records kept at the Occupational Health Division (OHD) to establish the main disorders related to absenteeism. Associations were investigated by means of Fisher's test using SPSS version 20.0. The significance level was set to p<0.05. 34.4% of the sample required sick leave due to musculoskeletal complaints. The most affected body site was the neck (18%). As per the OHD records, sickness absenteeism was mainly due to diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (25%). We found statistically significant association of absenteeism with length in the job and body mass index. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue were the main reason for missing work days. Absenteeism was associated with length in the job and high body mass index.

Work related muskuloskeletal disorders among dentists at the university dental clinic in Skopje

Summary Introduction Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common types of work-related diseases that affect health workers, especially dentists. The aim of our study was to examine the presence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists at the university dental clinic in correlation with risk factors. Materials and methods A questionnaire survey was carried out among 78 dental practitioners aged between 20 to 60 years old, employed at the university dental clinic. Questions included data on physical and psychosocial workload, perceived general health and occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in the past 12 months, chronic complaints, frequency and length of breaks, exercising habits as well as medical care seeking. Results Pain in the back, neck and shoulders (84.6% / 85.9%) was the most common complaint among the majority of respondents, while reduced range of movement was noticed among significantly fewer subjects, mostly between 40-60 years of age. Prolonged statistic position was considered to be one of the main causes of MSDs (82.05%) while 73.08% of respondents stated at least two more reasons beside this one. Conclusion The percentage of MSDs prevalence among dentists in public health sector is high. More extensive surveys should be undertaken to cover larger group of dentists from both private and public sector, in order to obtain complete analysis of the prevalence of occupational disorders in our country.

Causes of musculoskeletal complaint on carving crafters in Bantul

Causes of musculoskeletal complaint on carving crafters in BantulPurposeThe purpose of this study was to determine the factors causing musculoskeletal disorders in furniture carvers in Bantul. These factors are age, length of service, work stress and smoking habit.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted by distributing questionnaires to 56 respondents in a furniture carving business in Bantul. The independent variables were age, years of service, work stress, and smoking habits, while the dependent variable was a musculoskeletal disorder. Measurement of musculoskeletal disorder used a questionnaire, and Nordic Body Map while work stress measurement used a work stress indicator questionnaire.ResultsThe study found that there was a significant correlation between age and work stress with musculoskeletal complaints in furniture craftsmen in Bantul, while the working period and smoking habit did not significantly influence the musculoskeletal disorder in furniture crafters in Bantul.ConclusionAge and occupational stress are factors that affect musculoskeletal complaints, while the habit of work and smoking habit did not have a significant effect on the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in furniture crafters in Bantul. Work rotation and workspace design need to be done properly to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal problems in furniture crafters in Bantul.

The Influence of a Sudden Increase in Playing Time on Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Complaints in High-Level Amateur Musicians in a Longitudinal Cohort Study.

BackgroundSeveral studies in the domain of professional musicians describe the relation between playing time and the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in professional musicians. To date, no longitudinal cohort study into this relationship has been performed and no amateur musicians were studied. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the causal relationship between a sudden increase in playing time among amateur musicians on the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in a prospective cohort study.MethodsAll members of two national Dutch Students Orchestras were asked to participate in the study. These project-based orchestras, consisting of high-level amateurs, followed a nine-hour rehearsing schedule for ten consecutive days. On the first day (t0) and after one week (t1) the subjects were asked to complete a paper-based questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, music-related questions, questions regarding playing-related musculoskeletal complaints and the music module of the disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire.ResultsThe NSO consisted of 85 and the NESKO of 41 members during the study period. 59 subjects completed the questionnaire at both timepoints (response rate 47%). 9 subjects were excluded for being a music academy student, leaving 50 subjects (mean age 22.1, 72% female) suitable for analysis. During the rehearsal week, the prevalence of at least one playing-related musculoskeletal complaint increased from 28% to 80%. The most frequently affected areas were the neck, upper and lower back, hand/and or wrists and shoulders. The DASH music module score increased from 14 at t0 to 23 at t1.ConclusionA point prevalence of 28% at the start of the study that increased remarkably to 80% within a one-week period. Future research should evaluate other risk factors for musculoskeletal complaints in amateur musicians. These risk factors should be the base for the development of preventive measures.

The occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints among professional musicians: a systematic review.

PurposeThis study gives a systematic overview of the literature on the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in professional instrumental musicians.MethodsA systematic review. Nine literature databases were searched without time limits on June 25, 2015, also the complete index of the journal Medical Problems of Performing Artists (MPPA) until June 2015 (30;2) was searched, and citation tracking and reference checking of the selected articles were performed. The search consisted of the combination of three groups of keywords: musician (e.g., musician, violin, music student, instrument player) AND musculoskeletal (e.g., musculoskeletal, tendon, shoulder, arthritis) AND epidemiology (e.g., prevalence, incidence, occurrence).ResultsThe initial literature search strategy resulted in 1258 potentially relevant articles. Finally, 21 articles describing 5424 musicians were included in this review. Point prevalences of musculoskeletal complaints in professional musicians range between 9 and 68 %; 12-month prevalences range between 41 and 93 %; and lifetime prevalences range between 62 and 93 %. Ten out of 12 studies show a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among women. Brass instrumentalists are reported to have the lowest prevalence rates of musculoskeletal complaints. The neck and shoulders are the anatomic areas most affected; the elbows are least affected. Although some information is reported concerning age, the high risk of bias in and between these studies makes it impossible to present reliable statements with respect to this.ConclusionMusculoskeletal symptoms are highly prevalent among musicians, especially among women instrumentalists. Future research concerning the epidemiology of musculoskeletal complaints among musicians should focus on associated risk factors and follow the current guidelines to optimize scientific quality.

Work Related Discomforts from Perception of Optometrists, in Saudi Arabia

يعد الانزعاج المرتبط بالعمل مشكلة متنامية في جميع أنحاء العالم لا تؤثر فقط على صحة ورفاهية أخصائيي البصريات ، بل تؤثر أيضًا على الإنتاجية. ينشأ الانزعاج المرتبط بالعمل عندما تتجاوز متطلبات العمل من مختلف الأنواع والمجموعات قدرة الشخص وقدرته على التأقلم. بالإضافة إلى ذلك ، يمكن أن يحدث التوتر بسبب أحداث مختلفة. على سبيل المثال ، قد يشعر الشخص بالضغط إذا كانت متطلبات وظيفته (مثل الساعات أو المسؤوليات) أكبر مما يمكنه إدارتها بشكل مريح. تم الإبلاغ عن عدم الراحة الجسدية المتعلقة بالعمل في فاحصي النظر السعوديين. الغرض من هذه الورقة هو استكشاف العواقب الشخصية للانزعاج المرتبط بالعمل. شارك 129 من أخصائيي البصريات الذين يعانون من عدم ارتياح متعلق بالعمل تم الإبلاغ عنها ذاتيًا في مقابلة هاتفية أو وجهاً لوجه مدتها 30 دقيقة تتعلق ببيئة العمل والراحة الجسدية. جمع الاستبيان البيانات الديموغرافية وكذلك معلومات عن حدوث شكاوى العضلات والعظام في الأشهر ال 12 الماضية. تم التحقيق في أربعة طرق ؛ تحديدًا ، وصف الانزعاج ، والعوامل المساهمة في غير العمل ، وما إذا كان المشارك قد توقف عن العمل بسبب عدم الراحة ، والعلاجات التي تم الحصول عليها لتخفيف الانزعاج. خضعت هذه البيانات للتحليلات النوعية والكمية. تراوحت الانزعاج المبلغ عنه من خفيف إلى شديد. تم نقل 21 مشاركًا (16.3) إلى المستشفى بسبب الانزعاج. علاوة على ذلك ، لم يتم إدخال 108 مشاركًا (83.7) إلى المستشفى بسبب الانزعاج. بالإضافة إلى ذلك ، أبرزت النتائج أن 110 مشاركًا (85.3٪) اضطروا إلى تغيير وظائفهم أو واجباتهم بسبب هذا الانزعاج ، ولم يضطر 19 مشاركًا (14.7٪) أبدًا إلى تغيير وظائفهم أو واجباتهم بسبب هذا الانزعاج. على الرغم من عدم ارتياحهم لعملهم ، أعرب 62.8٪ عن عدم ارتياحهم لم يمنعهم من أداء مهام معينة. بينما أفاد 37.2٪ أن عدم ارتياحهم منعهم من أداء مهام معينة.

A comparative study on the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among musicians and non-musicians

BackgroundResearch comparing the frequency of musculoskeletal complaints between musicians and non-musicians is scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints between musicians and non-musicians.MethodsA cross-sectional study in 3215 students from three music academies (n = 345) and one medical school (n = 2870) in The Netherlands was performed, using an electronic questionnaire. The questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, use of music instruments and the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in six body regions. Questions were related to musculoskeletal complaints over the last twelve months and at the time of the questionnaire. Chi-square, t-tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for comparison between the two groups. The association between musculoskeletal complaints and possible predictors was analyzed using a logistic and Poisson regression.ResultsEighty-seven music academy students and 503 medical students returned the questionnaire, of which respectively eighty-three and 494 were included in the study. Seventy-four music academy students (89.2%) reported one or more musculoskeletal complaints during the last twelve months, compared to 384 (77.9%) medical students (p = 0.019). Moreover 52 music academy students (62.7%) and 211 medical students (42.7%) reported current musculoskeletal complaints (p = 0.001). The Odds ratio (OR) for the development of musculoskeletal complaints during the last twelve months in music academy students versus medical students is 2.33 (95% CI 1.61–3.05, p = 0.022). The OR at the time of the questionnaire is 2.25 (95% CI 1.77–2.73, p = 0.001). The total number of complaints have been modeled by employing a Poisson regression; the results show that non-musicians have on average less complaints than musicians (p = 0.01). The adjusted means are 2.90 (95% CI 2.18–3.63) and 1.83 (95% CI 1.63–2.04) respectively for musicians and non-musicians. Regarding the localization of complaints, music academy students reported more complaints concerning the right hand, wrists, left elbow, shoulders, neck, jaw and mouth in contrast to medical students.ConclusionsMusculoskeletal complaints are significantly more common among musicians compared to non-musicians, mainly due to a higher number of upper extremity complaints.

Factors associated with the ability and willingness to continue working until the age of 65 in construction workers

The working population is aging and a shortage of workers is expected in the construction industry. As a consequence, it is considered necessary that construction workers extend their working life. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with construction workers' ability and willingness to continue working until the age of 65. In total, 5,610 construction workers that participated in the Netherlands Working Conditions Survey filled out questionnaires on demographics, work-related and health-related factors, and on the ability and willingness to continue working until the age of 65. Logistic regression analyses were applied. Older workers were more often able, but less willing, to continue working until the age of 65. Frequently using force, lower supervisor support, lower skill discretion, and the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints were associated with both a lower ability and willingness to continue working. In addition, dangerous work, occasionally using force, working in awkward postures, lack of job autonomy, and reporting emotional exhaustion were associated with a lower ability to continue working, whereas working overtime was associated with a higher ability. Furthermore, low social support from colleagues was associated with a higher willingness. In addition to physical job demands, psychosocial job characteristics play a significant role in both the ability and willingness to continue working until the age of 65 in construction workers. Moreover, preventing musculoskeletal complaints may support the ability and willingness to continue working, whereas preventing emotional exhaustion is relevant for the ability to continue working.

Prevalence, characteristics, and impacts of work-related musculoskeletal disorders: a survey among physical therapists in the State of Kuwait

BackgroundPhysical therapists working in the State of Kuwait are at risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, prevalence rates and risk factors are not well documented. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, characteristics, and impacts of WMSDs among physical therapists in the State of Kuwait.MethodsA self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 350 physical therapists. The questionnaire gathered demographic data as well as information on occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in the previous 12 months. Descriptive statistics, frequency, and Chi-square analyses were used.ResultsThe response rate to the questionnaire was 63% (222/350). Of the 212 responders included in the study, the one-year prevalence of WMSDs was 47.6%, with lower back complaints as the most common (32%). This was followed by neck (21%), upper back (19%), shoulder (13%), hand/wrist (11%), knee (11%), ankle/foot (6%), elbow (4%), and hip/thigh (3%) complaints. The frequency of WMSDs was not gender related (except lower back, neck, and shoulder complaints) nor was it related to age (except lower back complaints), working venues (except hand/wrist), working hours, area of specialty, or exercise. WMSDs' impact on work was minor.ConclusionsWMSDs among physical therapists in Kuwait were common, with lower back and neck affected most. Lower back and neck WMSDs were related to the participant's demographics. Hand/wrist WMSDs were related to work settings. Further research is needed to investigate the effect of risk factors as physical load, psychosocial load, and general health status on prevalence musculoskeletal disorders.

PREVALENCE OF MUSCULOSKELETAL COMPLAINTS AMONG DENTISTS IN SOME EGYPTIAN CITIES

Background: Musculoskeletal complaints represent a significant occupational health issue in dentistry. In Egypt , data about the prevalence and risk factors of this problem are little. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints among dentists in some Egyptian cities ,evaluate the influence of personalcharacteristics, physical and psychological risk factors at work and health status on the occurrence of MSK complaints and to detect the association between MSK complaints and other contributing factors in the development of sickness absence among dentists. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 350 dentists in 3 cities of Egypt (Cairo , Al-mehalla El-kobra and El-mansoura).The questionnaire involved information on the respondent’s individual characteristics, job history, physical and psychosocial risk factors at work, general health status, and theoccurrence of musculoskeletal complaints.Results: Occupational neck and low-back pain were the most prevalent MSK complaintsamong dentists in the past 12 months in Egypt (75.1% and 58.5%, respectively). On the other hand low-back pain was the most prevalent chronic MSK complaints (11.4%) followed by chronic neck pain (7.4%). The occurrence of MSK pain was associated with at least one work- related physical load. Especially important was awkwardposture followed by improper workplace ergonomics, prolonged static posture, and repetitive movements .High job demands were associated with shoulder and hand/wrist complaints (OR= 2.26 and 2.17, respectively) . In this study, 27.4% of the respondents reported sickness absence . Chronic low-back pain was the only complaint thatincreased the risk of sickness absence (OR= 4.83). BMI >30, age > 40 years, perceived moderate general health, need for recovery and basic education were significant contributing factors for sickness absence. Conclusions: MSK complaints are a significant occupational health problem among dentists in some Egyptian cities. Interaction of physical load, psychosocial load, general health conditions, and personal criteria in developing the MSK pain require integratedpreventive strategies to minimize their impacts.

Musculoskeletal Pain, Disability and Quality of Life among Retired Dancers

The aim of this study was to examine the long-term effects of professional dancing by comparing the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints between retired dancers and the general population. A structured questionnaire on the history of regional pains, disability, and overall health was mailed to all available retired members of the Finnish National Ballet (n = 37) and to all retired members of the Union of Finnish Dance Artists (n = 32). An age-matched pool of non-dancer controls (n = 631) was chosen from the Health 2000-Survey to represent the general Finnish population. Disability, overall health and quality of life were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Differences in the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints between dancers and controls were analyzed with a logistic regression model. The relative risks were evaluated as odds radios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals. Adjusted mean values of VAS scores were estimated using a generated linear model. The mean age of the ballet dancers was 59 years (range: 49 to 71 years) and that of the modern dancers 50 years (range: 42 to 62 years). Adjusted for age and sex, the risk, OR (95% CI in brackets), of walking difficulty or limping because of hip pain during the past month was 2.9 (1.3-6.3) in the retired dancers (ballet and modern combined) compared with the general population. With similar adjustments, the OR for a knee complaint was 3.7 (1.8-7.5) in the former dancer group in comparison to the controls. The risk of suffering from walking difficulty or limping because of hip or knee pain is significantly increased in dancers as compared to non-dancing controls. The walking difficulty and limping because of hip and knee pain are noteworthy symptoms when assessing a former dancers musculoskeletal health.

Musculoskeletal disorders in shipyard industry: prevalence, health care use, and absenteeism

BackgroundIt is unclear whether the well-known risk factors for the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) also play an important role in the determining consequences of MSD in terms of sickness absence and health care use.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 853 shipyard employees. Data were collected by questionnaire on physical and psychosocial workload, need for recovery, perceived general health, occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints, and health care use during the past year. Retrospective data on absenteeism were also available from the company register.ResultsIn total, 37%, 22%, and 15% of employees reported complaints of low back, shoulder/neck, and hand/wrist during the past 12 months, respectively. Among all employees with at least one MSD, 27% visited a physician at least once and 20% took at least one period of sick leave. Various individual and work-related factors were associated with the occurrence of MSD. Health care use and absenteeism were strongest influenced by chronicity of musculoskeletal complaints and comorbidity with other musculoskeletal complaints and, to a lesser extent, by work-related factors.ConclusionIn programmes aimed at preventing the unfavourable consequences of MSD in terms of sickness absence and health care use it is important to identify the (individual) factors that determine the development of chronicity of complaints. These factors may differ from the well-know risk factors for the occurrence of MSD that are targeted in primary prevention.

A comparative analysis on musculoskeletal disorders between Greek and Dutch nursing personnel

To analyse cross-cultural differences between Greek and Dutch nursing personnel in association with the risk factors and occurrence and consequences (absenteeism and medical care seeking) of musculoskeletal disorders. This study was based on questionnaire surveys among 393 nurses and caregivers in nursing homes and homes for the elderly in The Netherlands and among 351 nurses in general hospitals in Athens, Greece. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyse associations between physical and psychosocial workload, need for recovery, perceived general health and (1) the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in the past 12 months, (2) chronic complaints during at least 3 months, and (3) complaints which led to sickness absence and medical care seeking. Greek nurses reported significantly more back complaints in the past 12 months (75 vs. 62%) than the Dutch workers, but chronicity (11 vs. 12%) and sickness absence (17 vs. 15%) of these complaints did not differ. Similar differences were observed for neck complaints but not for shoulder complaints. Most Greek nurses with back complaints visited a medical specialist (40%) while Dutch nurses and caregivers sought care through a general practitioner (33%). Multivariate analyses showed that in both countries strenuous back postures (ORs 1.9 and 1.9) and especially a moderate general health (ORs 4.3 and 2.9) were the significant risk factors for back pain. In both countries similar risk factors were associated with the occurrence of low-back pain. Cross-national differences were less important for the risk factors and musculoskeletal complaints than for the consequences of these complaints and for medical care seeking.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in dentists.

BackgroundThe prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in dentists is high although relatively few studies had focus in this profession. The aim of this study was to investigate the relations between physical, psychosocial, and individual characteristics and different endpoints of musculoskeletal complaints of low back, neck, shoulders and hand/wrist.MethodsA questionnaire survey was carried out among 430 dentists (response 88%) in Thessaloniki, Greece. Questions include data on physical and psychosocial workload, need for recovery, perceived general health and (i) the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in the past 12 months, (ii) chronic complaints during at least 1 month, complaints which led to (iii) sickness absence, and (iv) medical care seeking. In logistic regression analysis odds ratios were estimated for all relevant risk factors.Results62% of dentists reported at least one musculoskeletal complaint, 30% chronic complaints, 16% had spells of absence and, 32% sought medical care. Self-reported factors of physical load were associated with the occurrence of back pain (OR = 1.59), shoulder pain (OR = 2.57) and, hand/wrist pain (OR = 3.46). With the exception of hand/wrist complaints, the physical factors were not associated with chronic complaints and musculoskeletal sickness absence. Physical load showed a trend with the number of musculoskeletal complaints with ORs of 2.50, 3.07 and 4.40 for two, three and four musculoskeletal complaints, respectively. No consistent influence of psychosocial factors on complaints, chronicity, sickness absence and medical care seeking was observed. A perceived moderate general health was a significant factor for chronic complaints, comorbidity and medical care seeking where high perceived exertion was significant for absenteeism. Living alone was also related with increased absenteeism due to shoulder pain (OR = 5.01) and hand/wrist (OR = 4.07).ConclusionsThe physical load among dentists seems to put them at risk for the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders. More than one and severe complaints are related to perceived general health while high perceived exertion and social characteristics are associated with sickness absence. Chronic symptoms seem to determine medical care seeking. Ergonomic interventions may have a greater impact in prevention of hand/wrist complaints. When investigating the influence of work-related risk factors on musculoskeletal health, psychosocial and other personal characteristics should be taken into account.

Different risk factors for musculoskeletal complaints and musculoskeletal sickness absence.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether individual, work-related physical and psychosocial risk factors involved in the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints also determine musculoskeletal sickness absence. This cross-sectional study used a self-administered questionnaire to collect data on individual and work-related risk factors and the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints and musculoskeletal sickness absence among 373 employees of laundry-works and dry-cleaning establishments (response rate 87%). Logistic regression models were used to determine associations between risk factors and the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints and sickness absence due to these complaints. Both work-related physical and psychosocial factors showed strong associations with low-back pain and upper-extremity complaints. Work-related physical factors did not influence sickness absence, whereas psychosocial factors showed some associations with sickness absence. Sickness absence was associated with The Netherlands as the country of birth [odds ratio (OR) 0.3, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.2-0.6], and female workers had an episode of sickness absence due to low-back pain less often (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-0.9), but more often due to upper-extremity complaints (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.14.5). Work-related physical and psychosocial factors largely determine the occurrence of low-back pain and upper-extremity complaints, whereas individual factors predominantly determine whether persons with these musculoskeletal complaints take sick leave.

Risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among nursing personnel in Greek hospitals.

To investigate the relationships between physical, psychosocial, and individual characteristics and different endpoints of musculoskeletal complaints of the lower back, neck and shoulders. In this cross-sectional study a questionnaire survey was carried out among 351 nursing personnel (response 84%) in six general hospitals in Athens, Greece. A questionnaire was used on physical and psychosocial workload, need for recovery, perceived general health and (1) the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints in the past 12 months, (2) chronic complaints during at least 3 months, and (3) complaints which led to sickness absence. In logistic regression analysis odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for all relevant risk factors. Self-reported factors of physical load were associated with the occurrence of back pain (OR=1.85), neck pain (OR=1.88), and shoulder pain (OR=1.87) but these factors were not associated with chronic complaints and musculoskeletal sickness absence. Physical load showed a trend with the number of musculoskeletal complaints with ORs of 2.47 and 4.13 for two and three musculoskeletal complaints, respectively. No consistent influence of psychosocial factors on complaints, chronicity, or sickness absence was observed. A perceived moderate general health was also a risk factor, and strongest associations were observed for sickness absence due to back pain (OR=2.03), neck pain (OR=8.31), and shoulder pain (OR=6.84). The handling of physical loads among nurses seems to put them at risk for the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders. The development of these complaints into chronic complaints and associated sickness absence is strongly determined by perceived general health and almost not associated with work-related physical and psychosocial risk factors. When the influence of work-related risk factors on musculoskeletal health is being investigated, the general health status of individual workers should be taken into account.

Prognostic factors for musculoskeletal sickness absence and return to work among welders and metal workers.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse factors that determine the occurrence of sickness absence due to musculoskeletal problems and the time it takes to return to work. METHODS: A longitudinal study with two...

Repeated survey on changes in musculoskeletal complaints relative to age and work demands.

OBJECTIVES: To examine changes in musculoskeletal complaints over four years in groups of employees relative to age and work demands. METHODS: Repeated questionnaire data of male employees in heavy physical...

Work related risk factors for musculoskeletal complaints in the nursing profession: results of a questionnaire survey.

To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints of the back, arms or neck, and legs among nurses, and to investigate the relation between these complaints and various work related and personal variables. A questionnaire survey was carried out in four nursing homes in The Netherlands. The response was 95% and resulted in 846 completed questionnaires. It was found that a large proportion of the subjects regularly had back complaints (36%) but also had arm or neck (30%) and leg complaints (16%). Almost all respondents (89%) considered nursing work as physically strenuous. Most of them complained of working under time pressure (69%), increased work pressure (70%), and having no opportunity to take a break from the work (70%). The physical variables which seem to trouble the subjects most were lifting (65%), working in awkward postures (47%), and stooping (34%). Moreover, 53% of the subjects responded that the ergonomic lay out of the ward was disagreeable. Most of the work related variables under study seemed to be associated with musculoskeletal complaints. For all types of complaints the strongest associations were found with having to lift heavy loads. Apart from physical stress various aspects of work pressure showed strong associations with the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints. The variables on the ergonomy of the ward showed less clear associations with musculoskeletal complaints than were found for physical stress and work pressure. From these results it may be concluded that future research of health risks of nursing work should have a wider focus than the relation between physical workload and low back pain.