Prevalence Of Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

Risk of musculoskeletal disorders in female farmers and its socioeconomic determinants in Kashmir Valley.

Background/ AimsThis study investigates the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among female farmers, both perennial and non-perennial, in the Kashmir Valley, India. Given the manual labourintensive nature of agriculture in India, MSDs are a significant concern, often stemming from repetitive and constrained postures adopted during farming activities. MethodsUtilizing a cross-sectional design, data was collected through a questionnaire comprising two parts: the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for self-reporting MSDs and the second part dealing with socio-economic parameters. Participants were recruited randomly using a three-stage sampling technique from the working age group of 18 years to up to 60 years, resulting in 293 respondents (comprising 66.14% perennial and 33.86% non-perennial farmers). ResultsThe overall prevalence of MSDs was found to be 74.74%, with a notable majority of perennial cultivators (95.3%) reporting MSDs. Activities performed by female farmers were frequently characterized by repetitive and constrained postures, with the lower back being the most commonly affected site (68.78%), followed by the neck/shoulders (62.94%) and elbows/hands (13.54%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed age and marital status as significant risk factors for lower back disorders, neck/shoulders, and elbows/hands (p < 0.05), with workplace environment emerging as an additional risk factor for elbows/hands. ConclusionThe high prevalence of MSDs amongst the respondents establishes the urgent need for preventive strategies and educational programs aimed at promoting ergonomics awareness among female farmers

Monitoring Endoplasmic Reticulum Peroxynitrite Fluctuations in Primary Tendon-Derived Stem Cells and Insights into Tendinopathy.

Tendinopathy is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders, significantly affecting the quality of life of patients. Treatment outcomes can be improved with an early diagnosis and timely targeted interventions. Increasing evidence indicates that ROS and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress play key roles in modulating the differentiation processes of tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs), thereby contributing to the initiation and progression of tendinopathy. However, the relationship between ONOO- and the differentiation process, as well as the various stages of tendinopathy, remains unexplored. Herein, we developed two highly specific and sensitive fluorescent probes (Rod-Cl and Rod-Br) for detecting ONOO- in the ER. Rod-Br can detect basal levels of ONOO- in the ER of TDSCs and measure ONOO- levels in primary TDSCs stimulated by interleukin-1β over various durations, allowing for comparisons between chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation and ER stress levels. Additionally, we examined ONOO- variations in different stages of tendinopathy and treatment rat models in vivo and discussed the potential mechanisms. This research provides a robust tool for analyzing ONOO- dynamics in the tenogenic and osteogenic differentiation of TDSCs, offering new insights into the pathophysiology and treatment of tendinopathy.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Related Risk Factors in Iranian Military Personnel: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) are prevalent and costly diseases in military occupations. WRMSDs are prevalent and costly diseases in military occupations. We investigated the exposure to ergonomic risk factors and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among military personnel in the workplace. We aimed to investigate MSDs by conducting electronic searches on Persian databases such as SID, MagIran, and IranMedex, and English databases like PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Scopus. The search was not restricted by time and was conducted until Dec 20, 2021. Two researchers independently extracted the data, and the quality of the research was evaluated using the STROBE checklist. The results of different studies were merged and incorporated into the analysis using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) v3 software. Eleven qualitative studies found that 92% of the respondents were men (83% to 96%). The mean age was 34.17 ± 0.16 yr, with a confidence interval (of 95% CI:33.85-34.48). The mean BMI was 25±0.39 with a confidence interval of 95% CI:24.28-25.84. The mean work record was 12.89±0.81 yr with a confidence interval of 95% CI:11.30-11.48. The highest outbreak of MSDs is in the knee at 38.1% (95%CI:32.1-44.4), 37.6% of the neck (95% CI:24.8-52.5), and 32.5% of the shoulder. (95%CI:22.5-44.3) was observed. The wide role of various dimensions of work tasks and repetitive tasks (such as lifting, moving or changing positions, standing for long periods, as well as improper postures) in causing WRMSDs. Additionally, the risk factor in the workplace has financial implications for the military organization. The reduction of physical and psychological demands, as well as the improvement of ergonomic standards in the workplace, should be addressed to decrease MSDs in military centers.

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

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

Musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life of artisanal fishermen from riverside localities in the Brazilian Amazon.

Artisanal fishing is widely practiced in the Amazon region. However, the exhaustive labor demand impacts on the health of fishermen. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and the relationship with the quality of life (QoL) of artisanal fishermen. A cross-sectional study was carried out, evaluating male fishermen from two rural communities bordering Janauacá lake, Amazonas. Data were collected through interviews, using REDCap installed on smartphones. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was utilized to identify the body regions with the greatest pain complaints, and QoL was assessed using the mental and physical components of the SF-12. After the descriptive analysis, linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between the occurrence of MSDs and the components of QoL. The analyses were performed using Stata SE software, version 17. In total, 115 fishermen were evaluated. MSDs were reported in all of the body regions assessed, with a higher prevalence in the lower (80.0%) and upper (43.5%) back, and knee (40.9%). Lower QoL scores were observed in emotional performance (20.7 ± 4.0), physical performance (25.1 ± 4.3), and mental health (29.0 ± 13.6). It was observed that individuals with any MSD presented worse QoL in the physical component (βadj=-5.0; 95%CI=-9.7; -0.3). The findings showed a high prevalence of MSDs in the study population, as well as its impact on the QoL of artisanal fishermen. This highlights the need to reorganize health services to prevent the occurrence of MSDs, as well as for their treatment and rehabilitation.

Epimedin C alleviated osteoarthritis development by regulating chondrocyte Nrf2-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome axis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder globally. This study explored the therapeutic potential of Epimedin C (Epi C) in OA and its mechanisms. We isolated primary chondrocytes from mice and induced inflammatory damage using interleukin-1β (IL-1β) to evaluate Epi C's capacity to preserve cell viability and inhibit apoptosis, employing cell counting kit (CCK8) assays, EdU staining, and flow cytometry. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blot, and real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), alongside assessments of extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. In vivo, OA was induced in mice through destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM), followed by Epi C administration. Cartilage integrity was evaluated via micro-computed tomography (CT) and histology. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway involvement was investigated through siRNA knockdown and oxidative stress markers, while NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome expression was measured to establish Epi C's modulatory effect. Our study revealed that Epi C protected against IL-1β-induced chondrocyte damage by enhancing cell viability, reducing apoptosis, and dampening inflammatory responses. The in vivo studies demonstrated Epi C's role in preserving cartilage structure, activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and inhibiting NLRP3 expression in DMM-induced OA mice. Conclusively, our findings provide substantial evidence of Epi C's therapeutic efficacy in OA, primarily through its modulation of the Nrf2-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, offering novel insights into its management role in OA.

Management Ergonomics Sector Analysis Oil Palm Plantation

Indonesia, the world’s largest palm oil producer, significantly impacts global crude palm oil (CPO) production. Despite its economic value, manual labor in oil palm plantations often involves non-ergonomic practices, particularly in tasks like loading and unloading, leading to worker fatigue and increased risks of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). This research aims to evaluate ergonomic risks and MSD prevalence among oil palm workers by analyzing body posture during daily tasks. Data were collected using the RULA method, Nordic Body Map, and environmental measurements, supported by interviews and observations. Findings reveal that improper lifting and posture during harvesting contribute to fatigue and MSDs among workers. Recommendations for improvement include regular ergonomic training, adjustments to work posture, and the addition of safety equipment like fire extinguishers. By implementing these changes, the study seeks to improve worker safety, minimize MSD occurrences, and boost productivity in oil palm plantations. These insights are vital for ensuring sustainable practices in the industry and promoting the well-being of plantation workers.

Musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors in the modern era: results from the Specchio cohort

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent a major challenge for occupational and public health, but data are scarce in Switzerland or concentrated on a few sectors of activities. The aim of this study is to provide results on the prevalence and risk and protective factors of MSDs in the general working-age population of the Geneva canton, Switzerland. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted as part of Specchio population-based cohort study. Prevalence and associations between MSDs and sociodemographic variables, individual behaviour (smoking, physical activity, sleep), health conditions (BMI, chronic diseases), physical and psychological risks at work were examined using regression models. The impact of teleworking was also evaluated. Results 2’733 participants took part in the survey, of which 38% were men, and mean age was 50. Overall prevalence of MSDs was 74% among men and 84% among women. 80% of the individuals experience back pain and 56% shoulder pain. Among individuals who experienced MSDs, 55.2% consulted a healthcare professional. The risk factors for MSDs were female sex (OR = 1.95; 95% IC = 1.55-2.28), body mass index (obese) (2.2; 1.51-3.32), lower education (1.77; 0.84-4.37), smoking (1.65; 1.19-2.35), exposure to physical risks (3.54; 2.78-4.51), stress at work (effort-reward imbalance) (3.23; 2.45-4.29) and a poor work-life balance (2.36; 1.88-2.97). The prevalence of MSDs remained high among workers who telework (78% versus 84% in working population). Conclusions This study, carried out in a large population-based cohort, confirmed several risk factors for MSDs. These results will contribute to the implementation of prevention strategies, especially as teleworking has gained in importance in recent years, which may have aggravated workers’ isolation and stress, sedentariness, and poor body posture. Main message: These data confirm the weight of musculoskeletal disorders and will help implementation of prevention health strategies. Key messages • The relationship between psychosocial risks at work and the occurrence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) persists even following adjustment for exposure to physical risks and individual risk factors. • The prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSDs) disorders remained high among workers who telework.

CULTURAL adaptation and validation of the Indonesian version of the Roland-Morris disability questionnaire: A psychometric analysis

BACKGROUND: Epidemiological evidence underscores low back pain (LBP) as a prevalent and consequential musculoskeletal disorder, posing a significant public health challenge. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) play a crucial role in the diagnostic process for LBP, with the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) being a commonly utilized tool in evaluating LBP. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study aimed to cross-culturally adapt and validate the Indonesian version of the 24-item-RMDQ among nonspecific LBP (NSLBP) patients. METHODS: The RMDQ scales underwent forward-backwards translation, readability, and content validity assessments with NSLBP patients (n = 137), with a mean age of 38.6±11.8 years (59% female). Psychometric testing included assessments of internal consistency and 1-week test-retest reliability, convergent validity with pain numeric rating scale (PNRS), and the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) of quality of life (Short Form 12). The construct validity using confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). RESULTS: The findings of this study indicated a good internal consistency (Cronbach α= 0.80) of the translated instrument. Moderate to good repeatability estimates of all RMDQ items were demonstrated with the total ICC of the total RMDQ score of 0.90 [95%CI (0.85–0.94)]. The instrument correlations with PNRS, PCS, and MCS were 0.54, 0.60, and 0.23, respectively. The goodness-of-fit test further affirmed an acceptable fit of the data, although low factor loadings were found in several RMDQ items. CONCLUSION: Although the factor structure of the RMDQ scale warrants further investigation, the overall findings support its suitability for clinical application in Indonesian NSLBP patients.

Prevalence and association of musculoskeletal disorders with various risk factors among older Indian adults: Insights from a nationally representative survey.

Globally, Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the biggest contributor (17%) to years lived with disability. For offering diagnosis and appropriate health interventions options along with follow-up care, it is pertinent to have a thorough awareness of its associated risk factors. The study aims to assess the prevalence and association between MSDs and risk factors among the Indian older adults above 45 years. Prevalence of MSDs among 28,436 participants was estimated using nationally representative survey on older Indian adults. Spatial distribution maps were created to display the magnitude of MSD prevalence at Indian sub-national level. Association between presence of MSDs and associated risk factors (such as occupation, employment duration, physical activity, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, tobacco usage, and alcohol consumption) was explored through Multivariate logistic regression. P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. MSD was prevalent in over half of participants (53.5 (52.9-54.1)%), with more among females and in those aged >60 years (60.4 (59.3-61.4)%). Overall, joint pain (41.9 (41.3-41.4)%) was more common than back pain (32.6 (32.0-33.1)%). Prevalence was highest in Manipur (81.1 (77.9-83.9)%) and lowest in West Bengal (33.1 (30.7-35.5)%). MSD presence was positively associated with certain occupational groups, pre-obesity (BMI 25-29.9 Kg/m2), currently hypertensive, vigorous physical activity among overall population. Tobacco usage was positively associated, while alcohol consumption was linked to a lower occurrence of MSDs for 45-60 years age group. Customised policy interventions can be developed for specific age category of older Indian adults and musculoskeletal health can be improved by addressing modifiable risk factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco usage, avoiding workplace risks in occupations requiring manual labour as revealed by this study.

Selenium nanoparticles ameliorate lumbar disc degeneration by restoring GPX1-mediated redox homeostasis and mitochondrial function of nucleus pulposus cells

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that involves the excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction and matrix metabolism imbalance in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Selenium, an indispensable trace element, plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial redox homeostasis by being incorporated into antioxidant selenoproteins as selenocysteine. In this study, we employed a straightforward synthesis method to produce selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) with consistent size and distribution, and evaluated their potential protective effects in ameliorating IVDD. In a simulated inflammatory environment induced by interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) in vitro, SeNPs demonstrated a protective effect on the matrix synthesis capacity of NPCs through the up-regulation of aggrecan and type II collagen, while concurrently suppressing the expression of matrix degradation enzymes including MMP13 and ADAMTS5. Additionally, SeNPs preserved mitochondrial integrity and restored impaired mitochondrial energy metabolism by activating glutathione peroxidase1 (GPX1) to rebalance redox homeostasis. In a rat lumbar disc model induced by puncture, the local administration of SeNPs preserved the hydration of nucleus pulposus tissue, promoted matrix deposition, and effectively mitigated the progression of IVDD. Our results indicate that the enhancement of GPX1 by SeNPs may offer a promising therapeutic approach for IVDD by restoring mitochondrial function and redox homeostasis.

Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korean Farmers: Survey on Occupational Diseases in 2020 and 2022.

This study investigated factors influencing the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) resulting from agricultural work, utilizing the 2020 and 2022 occupational disease survey data collected by the Rural Development Administration. The combined data from these years indicated a 6.02% prevalence of MSDs, reflecting a significant class imbalance in the binary response variables. This imbalance could lead to classifiers overlooking rare events, potentially inflating accuracy assessments. We evaluated five distinct models to compare their performance using both original and synthetic data and assessing the models' performance based on synthetic data generation. In the multivariate logistic model, we focused on the main effects of the covariates as there were no statistically significant second-order interactions. Focusing on the random over-sampling examples (ROSE) method, gender, age, and pesticide use were particularly impactful. The odds of experiencing MSDs were 1.29 times higher for females than males. The odds increased with age: 2.66 times higher for those aged 50-59, 4.60 times higher for those aged 60-69, and 7.16 times higher for those aged 70 or older, compared to those under 50. Pesticide use was associated with 1.26 times higher odds of developing MSDs. Among body part usage variables, all except wrists and knees were significant. Farmers who frequently used their necks, arms, and waist showed 1.27, 1.11, and 1.23 times higher odds of developing MSDs, respectively. The accuracy of the raw method was high, but the ROSE method outperformed it for precision and F1 score, and both methods showed similar AUC.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in dockworkers. Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Dockworkers are exposed to physical overloads that can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal disorders, leading to functional disability and absenteeism. to map, critically appraise, and synthesize the available evidence on the prevalence of musculoskeletal diseases associated with port occupational activities. A comprehensive search was conducted in structured and unstructured databases in August 2023, with no date or language restriction, to identify observational studies evaluating the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in dockworkers' occupational activity. The risk of bias was assessed using validated tools based on the included study designs. Data from studies were pooled in meta-analyses. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. We identified 12 analytical cross-sectional studies involving 7821 participants in ports of five countries. Most studies (75%) had a moderate methodological quality according to the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Considering the overall worker categories and any musculoskeletal disorders, the meta-analysis showed a prevalence of 58% (95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] 37% to 78%), with degenerative spinal diseases 42% (95% CI -0.6% to 91%) and low back pain 36% (95% CI 21% to 50%) being the most prevalent conditions. Symptoms were predominantly in foremen and stevedores. The certainty of the evidence was very low. Musculoskeletal disorders seem prevalent among dockworkers, mainly degenerative spinal diseases and low back pain. Studies with greater methodological consistency are still needed to validate these hypotheses and assist in decision-making for implementing preventive and informational policies in maritime port management organizations. PROSPERO registry CRD42021257677.

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

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

Assessing the knowledge of low back pain among physiotherapists in Spain: A cohort study with pre- and post-educational course evaluation

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorder worldwide and physiotherapists are among the primary healthcare professionals assessing and treating the condition. However, scientific knowledge regarding the management of LBP amongst physiotherapists is largely unknown. ObjectivesTo evaluate the level of evidence-based knowledge among Spanish physiotherapists in LBP management and assess knowledge enhancement following the completion of an e-learning course. DesignSingle-arm cohort study with pre-post evaluation. MethodsThis single-arm pre-post study involved 1350 physiotherapists practicing in Spain. Initially, participants underwent a 22-question test on evidence-based LBP knowledge, covering socio-economic impact, characteristics of LBP, rehabilitation goals, psychosocial factors, and high- and low-value interventions. After completing the course, participants took a final test with the same 22 questions in randomized order. ResultsOut of the 1350 physiotherapists enrolled, 857 completed the course. The initial responses demonstrated that almost half of the participants considered medical imaging essential before starting physiotherapy treatment, perceived glucocorticoids as recommended for chronic low back pain, and considered ergonomic adjustments crucial for managing the condition. Individuals who completed their education more than 10 years ago showed a minor improvement in evidence-based knowledge compared to those who recently finished their university degree. Following the course, participants displayed improved knowledge, narrowing prior disparities in error percentages across questions. ConclusionDue to existing gaps in physiotherapists’ evidence-based knowledge of LBP, particularly among those who have worked longer time as physiotherapists, e-learning initiatives may be a feasible approach to support continuous training of physiotherapists.

Prevalence and Impact of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dental Students in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: For medical students, maintaining physical health is crucial for effective practice, but these students are often exposed to both physical and mental health challenges, including work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Dental students are particularly vulnerable due to the physically demanding nature of their training, which involves repetitive movements, heavy workloads, and inadequate rest breaks. These disorders can lead to chronic pain, impairing quality of life and professional productivity. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of WMSDs among dental students in Iran. Searches were conducted in several domestic and international databases, and articles published between 2000 and 2024 were included if they reported data on the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in dental students. A total of 289 articles were initially identified, with 4 meeting the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software to evaluate WMSD prevalence rates. Results: The meta-analysis revealed that 22.6% of dental students experienced back pain, 38.8% had neck pain, 25.2% reported shoulder pain, and 15.2% experienced hand/elbow pain. Overall, 72.0% of dental students reported pain in at least one part of the body. These findings align with similar global studies, with variations in prevalence possibly due to differences in sample sizes, study designs, and geographical factors. Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the neck, back, and shoulders, among dental students in Iran. The findings underscore the need for preventive interventions focused on improving ergonomics and occupational health to reduce the risk of WMSDs and enhance the well-being of dental students.

Efficacy of a single dose of cryopreserved human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis:a randomized, controlled, double-blind pilot study

BackgroundKnee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent degenerative musculoskeletal disorder, which is particularly common in older population. While conventional treatments have limited effectiveness, the development of more effective therapeutic strategies is necessary to address this primary source of pain and disability. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs) offer a promising therapeutic approach for treating knee OA. AimThis randomized, prospective, double-blind and controlled pilot study was carried out to evaluate and compare the safety and therapeutic efficacy of a single intra-articular injection of a standardized product CellistemOA (5 × 106 ± 5 × 105 UC-MSCs), vs. triamcinolone (a synthetic corticosteroid) (10 mg/mL) in thirty patients with symptomatic knee OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grade II or III). MethodsThe outcomes included changes in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores based on a Likert scale, numerical rating score (NRS) for pain, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire), from baseline and throughout 12-months of follow-up. ResultsPatients treated with CellistemOA showed significant improvement in WOMAC score (including the three subscale scores (pain, stiffness and function), NRS in pain, and SF-36 profile from baseline to 12 months (p < 0.05) compared to the triamcinolone group, and no severe adverse events were reported. There were no significant differences in MRI WORMS scores between the two groups. However, patients who received the cellular treatment experienced a significant improvement in their SF-36 profile (p < 0.05). ConclusionsThis pilot study revealed that a single dose of CellistemOA is safe and superior to the active comparator in knee OA at 1-year of follow-up, making it a compelling therapeutic alternative to treat symptomatic OA patients.

A Comparative Study of Different Unorganized Sectors’ Workers in India to Identify Musculoskeletal Disorder Prevalence through Empirical Survey and Deep Learning Methods

Background:: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a group of non-fatal injuries that can occur as a result of various repetitive workplace activities, mainly in unorganized sectors. Workers who engage in highly repetitive activities involving constant hand effort, localized mechanical pressure, and vibration are more prone to developing these disorders. Objective:: The objective of this research was to determine the prevalence of MSDs among workers in various unorganized sectors in India who perform hand-intensive occupations. Method:: A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 340 workers from diverse groups such as sugarcane farmers, footwear industry workers, and tarpaulin weavers, to accomplish this goal. Data for the survey was collected using a questionnaire. Additionally, a comprehensive time study and a deep learning-based posture detection study were conducted on the different activities performed during the workers' occupational tasks. The chi-square test was used to assess the relationship between discomfort and work repetitiveness. Result:: The data analysis revealed that the working activities (especially cutting/harvesting, rubber cutting, etc.) of unorganized sector workers were repetitive, with more than half of each activity’s work cycle involving a similar usage pattern. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between the level of discomfort and work repetitiveness among workers in different sectors (sugarcane farmers: p &lt; 0.01, footwear industry workers: p &lt; 0.05, tarpaulin weavers: p &lt; 0.05). Consequently, it can be concluded that prolonged occupational activities involving repetitive and prolonged standing may contribute to the occurrence of MSDs. Conclusion:: Ergonomic interventions/modifications in the form of patent work will be necessary to prevent these issues in the near future.

Ergonomic awareness and practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorder among healthcare workers in UAE: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundHealth professionals are at a higher risk of developing WMSD due to the nature of their work. Ergonomic awareness and practice promote workers' general well-being and safety in the workplace. AimAssess the ergonomic awareness and practice among healthcare workers in the UAE, its relationship with demographic variables and determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in this population. MethodThis was a cross-sectional study among 307 healthcare workers from hospitals in Dubai, Ajman, and Sharjah in the UAE. A self-administered online questionnaire was used for data collection. Chi-square tests were used to assess associations between variables. ResultsIn the present study, the majority were female (77.4%). Concerning the nationalities, non-EMR (71.4%) and EMR (28.6%). The majority fell within the age group of 30–39 (39%). Regarding work experience, 58% had over ten years of experience. Results showed that 89.3% had good ergonomic awareness, while 63.5% demonstrated good ergonomic practices. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) were reported by 89.6% of participants, with the most common areas of pain being the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Education level was significantly associated with ergonomic awareness (p < 0.05). Age (P < 0.05) and years of experience (P < 0.01) were significantly associated with ergonomic practice. A significant association was observed between MSD and ergonomic awareness (P < 0.01), with good awareness associated with reported pain. ConclusionA significant occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly in the neck, low back, and shoulders. The association was observed with education and ergonomic awareness, age and years of experience with practice and MSD and awareness.

Achilles tendinopathy treatment via circadian rhythm regulation

IntroductionAchilles tendinopathy (AT) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder closely linked to oxidative stress. Existing evidence suggests a potential link between circadian clock rhythms and oxidative stress. However, the precise role of the circadian clock in the progression and treatment of AT remains unclear. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the role of the Achilles tendon circadian clock in AT pathology and explore the potential use of biomaterials for modulating the circadian clock in the treatment of AT. MethodsWe utilized in vivo and in vitro models to investigate the alterations of the circadian clock within the Achilles tendon during the progression of AT, as well as its impact on disease development. Additionally, we fabricated Nb2C@CeO2 composites featuring a Schottky heterojunction for regulating the circadian rhythm and validated its therapeutic efficacy and molecular mechanism of AT through both in vivo and in vitro experiments. ResultsThe Achilles tendon functioned as a peripheral oscillator with an independent and self-sustained time-keeping system. The rhythm of the Achilles tendon clock was disrupted during the development of AT, as indicated by the decreased amplitude of Bmal1 and Nrf2 rhythm expression. Mechanistically, the knockdown of Bmal1 disrupted the Achilles tendon clock, thereby destroying the Bmal1-Nrf2 axis dependent molecular defense mechanism, and exacerbating the inflammatory response, whereas overexpression of Bmal1 had a protective effect. Nb2C@CeO2 composites with Schottky heterojunctions enhance intercellular electrical signaling, boosting Bmal1 expression and mitigating AT’s pathological changes. Importantly, enhancing Bmal1 expression during its peak, rather than its trough, was more effective. ConclusionThis study identified the protective role of the circadian clock against oxidative stress and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon circadian clock-targeted therapy represents a promising strategy for AT treatment.