Prevalence Of Musculoskeletal Symptoms Research Articles

Epidemiology of work-related injuries, musculoskeletal disorders and dermatitis among hospital food service workers in a tertiary hospital in Asia.

Despite the relative importance, the prevalence of workplace safety and health issues in hospital food service workers is not well studied. This study describes the epidemiology of work-related injuries and occupational diseases among hospital food service workers (FSWs) in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Using a total population sampling approach, a cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire was distributed to all FSWs employed at a major tertiary hospital in Singapore. The response rate was 98.4% (n = 125). The overall prevalence of workplace injuries and musculoskeletal symptoms was 35% (n = 43) and 53% (n = 65) respectively. The most common workplace injuries were cuts/lacerations (35.8%), muscle strain (25.4%) and burns (19.4%). The prevalence of workplace injuries among staff performing food preparation duties was higher at 56.3% as compared to 21.6% among staff with no food preparation duties (p < 0.01). The prevalence of workplace injuries among staff performing cooking duties was also higher at 47.5%, compared to 29.3% among staff with no cooking duties (p = 0.05). Staff performing food preparation duties had a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms at 66.7% as compared to 44.6% among staff with no food preparation duties (p = 0.02). Obese staff had a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms at 78.9%, compared to overweight staff at 53.8% and staff with normal weight at 43.1% (p = 0.03). FSWs with jobs involving cooking and preparation of food, and those with obesity, are at higher risk of sustaining workplace injuries or musculoskeletal symptoms. Targeted interventions should be implemented for injury prevention and to mitigate these risks.

ERGONOMICS ASSESSMENT OF EXPOSURE TO RISK OF MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS IN BANK EMPLOYEES

Objective: Work-related musculoskeletal problems are common in many occupations and these musculoskeletal problems can decrease an individual’s quality of life by affecting their daily living activities. The objective of this research was to evaluate the level of exposure to musculoskeletal symptoms risk among employees working in banks. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan from January 2018 to June 2018. 620 bank employees of both genders, with the age of 25-45 years were included in this study, and employees with musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, amputee or prosthetic limb, and any trauma were excluded from this study. Rapid office strain assessment (ROSA) and quick exposure check (QEC) scales were used to assess the risk and prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms. Data were analyzed by using SPSS 21. Results: According to the scoring of QEC scales 92.2% of participants fall in the acceptable ergonomics category, 6% fall into investigate further and 1.1% fall into investigate and change soon, with the highest symptoms among low back (17.7%). And the mean ROSA final score (5.51) indicates that most of the participants have a high risk of musculoskeletal symptoms. Conclusion: Regarding the scoring of ROSA and QEC scale musculoskeletal symptoms has a high prevalence among bank employees. Keywords: Ergonomics, Employee, Environment, Pain, Risk.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk assessment among radiologists and gastroenterologists using the workplace ergonomic risk assessment method

Background. Ergonomic risk factors in the workplace expose gastroenterologists and radiologists to Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs). This study aims to compare the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk factors in these two groups of physicians. &#x0D; Materials and methods. This descriptive study was conducted on 360 physicians (radiologists and gastroenterologists) at the 5 University and teaching hospitals in Tehran. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was detected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The Workplace Ergonomic Risk Assessment (WERA) method was used to estimate and evaluate the ergonomic risk factors in each physician. Finally, the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders was compared between the two groups using statistical tests. &#x0D; Results. The prevalence of shoulder (70% vs 36.66%; OR=4.03 (2.59–6.25); p&lt;0.001) and hand pain (45% vs 30%; OR=2.78 (1.80–4.31); p&lt;0.001) among radiologists was significantly higher than that among gastroenterologists. In contrast, gastroenterologists had a significantly higher prevalence of upper (65% vs 38.33%; OR=2.98 (1.94–4.58); p&lt;0.001) and lower back pain (67.2% vs 49.44%; OR=2.55 (2.06–3.17); p&lt;0.001) than radiologists. The mean WERA final score, the leg score, forceful score, contact stress, and task duration in radiologists were higher than that of gastroenterologists and the back score in gastroenterologists was higher than radiologists (p&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Limitations. In this study, the psychological factors affecting musculoskeletal disorders have not been investigated.&#x0D; Conclusion. WRMSDs had a relatively high prevalence among radiologists (shoulder and hand pain) and gastroenterologists (upper and lower back). Due to the impact of ergonomic risk factors on these disorders in the workplace, ergonomic interventions should be implemented to reduce these risk factors in occupational settings.

Home schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic: A randomized controlled trial of online exercise and ergonomics advice protocols on upper body symptoms.

Understanding of students' musculoskeletal health under home-schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic is limited. (1) To investigate the prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms in home-schooled adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) To evaluate the effect of an online exercise + ergonomics advice protocol on symptoms, compared with ergonomics advice alone. Cross-sectional symptom survey identifying eligible participants, followed by a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Online classes. Survey: 354 students (mean 16.6 years). 188 students with upper body musculoskeletal symptoms. Randomization to three groups (physical therapy exercises + ergonomics postural advice, ergonomics postural advice alone, nonintervention control) stratified by the site of symptoms (neck, shoulder, upper back). Interventions were orally delivered online (via WhatsApp) supplemented with written/illustrative material. Follow-up occurred at 8 weeks. Survey: prevalence of symptoms (Nordic Questionnaire). primary outcome = change in intensity of upper body symptoms (visual analogue scale); secondary outcome = number of participants reporting improvement in upper body symptoms. The 12-month prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the survey was 38% neck, 28% shoulder, and 35% upper back, with mean pain intensity of 3.6, 3.9, and 3.8, respectively, on 0-10 visual analogue scale: Two-thirds reported symptoms in multiple anatomical regions. In the trial, there was no statistically significant difference between the exercise + ergonomics group and ergonomics alone group on the primary outcome, yet both groups showed reduced symptom intensity compared with control (p < .001). More participants in the exercise + ergonomics group reported improvement than in the ergonomics advice alone group (p < .02). The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was relatively high in home-schooled adolescents. Symptoms can be reduced by ergonomics advice with or without exercises, but the effect is enhanced by the addition of physical therapy exercises. The latter approach may be considered for improving schoolchildren's musculoskeletal health in the usual classroom setting.

Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders; A Systematic Review

Musculoskeletal disorders pose a substantial health risk to employees in various professions worldwide, particularly those in healthcare settings. While prior research has predominantly focused on musculoskeletal issues among nurses, limited attention has been given to doctors across different specialties, including surgeons. Surgeons face unique challenges, combining intense mental focus, precision in movements, and varying physical demands. This systematic review aimed to explore the epidemiology, causes, and management of musculoskeletal disorders among surgeons and healthcare workers. PubMed/Medline and Embase were used as data sources, and articles published in English from 2010 to 2023 were reviewed following PRISMA guidelines. The analysis included seven articles, primarily employing surveys and national database analyses. The findings revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among healthcare workers, particularly surgeons, who experienced significant rates of shoulder, back, and neck complaints. Physical risk factors, including constrained postures and repetitive motions, were identified as significant predictors of musculoskeletal problems. Holistic treatment approaches that consider the patient\&amp;apos;s lifestyle, preferences, mental health, and concurrent conditions were emphasized. Conservative therapy, assistive technology, psychiatric counseling, and coping skills were recognized as beneficial interventions. The study underscores the importance of understanding and managing musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare workers, contributing to improved evaluation and management strategies in the future. Surgeons, in particular, require attention to their unique work.

Impact of welding occupation on serum aluminium level and its association with physical health, cognitive function, and quality of life: a cross-sectional study.

There is an occupational health concern about welders' inhalation of toxic aluminium fumes. We investigated whether serum aluminium level (SAL) and demographic variables can significantly predict physical health parameters, cognition, and quality of life (QoL) among welders. The cross-sectional study involved 100 age- and location-matched men (50 welders and 50 non-welders). SAL obtained using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer, and data collected using blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) apparatuses, biodata form, pain rating scale, General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition, WHOQoL-BREF, and Nordic musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) questionnaire were analysed using independentsamplest test, chi-square, Pearson's correlation, and hierarchical linear regression. Welders had significantly higher SAL (mean difference [MD] = 1.77µg/L, p < 0.001), lower QoL (MD = 3.92, p = 0.039), and higher prevalence of MSS on the neck (χ2 = 10.187, p = 0.001), shoulder (χ2 = 9.007, p = 0.003), upper back (χ2 = 6.832, p = 0.009), and knee (χ2 = 12.190, p < 0.001) than non-welders. There was a significant bivariate association between SAL, systolic blood pressure (β = 0.313, p = 0.002), and BMI (β = 0.279, p = 0.005), but not pain intensity, cognition, or QoL. SAL remained a significant predictor of systolic blood pressure after adjustment for physical health and QoL parameters (β = 0.191, p = 0.044). The association between SAL and social QoL became significant after adjustment for physical health and other QoL domains (β = - 0.210, p = 0.032) and demographic variables (β = - 0.233, p = 0.046). Welders had significantly higher SAL, musculoskeletal symptoms, blood pressure, and lower QoL than non-welders. SAL was associated with adverse physical health parameters and social-related QoL, not cognition. We recommend routine aluminium bioavailability and physical health checks among welders.

The relationship between job satisfaction and the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in staff of Allameh Bohlool Gonabadi Hospital in 2021

Introduction: Knowing the factors that lead to job satisfaction is essential for employees and employers to improve the work environment. This study investigates the relationship between job satisfaction and the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the Allameh Behlool Gonabadi Hospital in 2021.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 107 employees of Allameh Behlool Hospital in Gonabad in 2021. A demographic information checklist, Nordic standard questionnaire, and Minnesota job satisfaction questionnaire were used. Collected data were entered into SPSS software version 24 and interpreted using descriptive and analytical statistics. The significance level for all analyses was considered 0.05.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.10±6.45, and the mean job satisfaction score was 55.08± 10.34. According to the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire, 48 people had average satisfaction, and 59 had unsatisfactory satisfaction. There was no significant relationship between musculoskeletal symptoms and job satisfaction; however, musculoskeletal symptoms were higher in people with unfavorable job satisfaction.&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and job dissatisfaction in hospital staff is high, which can play an essential role in reducing their work efficiency and disability. Therefore, due to the special position of hospital staff in the health system, measures are recommended to improve workplace ergonomics and solve the psychological problems of these people.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Patients with Psoriasis and Predictors Associated with the Development of Psoriatic Arthritis: Retrospective Analysis of a US Claims Database.

Psoriasis (PsO) is associated with the development of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Patients with PsO often experience pre-PsA musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms, leading to potential structural damage and substantial disease burden with impact on function. The objective of this study is to describe prevalence rates and evidence of MSK symptoms, including incidence of comorbid PsA diagnosis, in patients newly diagnosed with PsO and identify factors associated with PsA diagnosis. This retrospective analysis included administrative claims from the Optum Research Database for adult patients with a new PsO diagnosis between January 2008 and February 2019. Eligible patients had ≥ 2 claims for PsO on unique dates, were aged ≥ 18years at the date of the first claim with a diagnosis of PsO (index date), and had continuous enrollment with medical and pharmacy coverage for 12months before (baseline period) and ≥ 12months following the index date. Primary outcomes were incidence of comorbid PsA diagnosis, prevalence of MSK symptoms other than PsA, and evidence of MSK symptoms collected at baseline and assessed in 12-month intervals through 60months. Of the 116,203 patients with newly diagnosed PsO, 110,118 were without baseline comorbid PsA. High prevalence rates of MSK symptoms among patients with only PsO were seen at baseline (47.1%), 12months (48.2%), and 60months (82.1%). Patient age, baseline MSK symptoms, and baseline MSK symptom-related healthcare utilization were associated with increased hazard of a PsA diagnosis. Increased prevalence rates of MSK symptoms and burden are experienced by patients newly diagnosed with PsO through 60months of follow-up. Several baseline factors were associated with increased risk of PsA diagnosis.

Investigation of the multi-component ergonomics intervention effects on improving musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication: A case study in open-plan offices.

Office workers are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) due to improper workstations. Open-plan bank office employees must communicate with bank clerks properly and perform financial activity precisely, but noise is a factor that disrupts their communication. Therefore, MSS and annoying noise are two of the main problems in open-plan offices. This study evaluated the effects of a multi-component intervention involving individual (employee ergonomics training) and physical (improvements in workstation design and work environment) ergonomic factors on musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication in open-plan environments. A preliminary survey was carried out to investigate the overall ergonomics problems, the tasks and time analysis, workstations setup, the prevalence of MSS (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire), physical discomfort (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]), and posture (assessed by Rapid Upper Limb Assessment [RULA] method), environmental status (measurement of noise), and speech intelligibility (assessed by Speech Interference Level [SIL] method based on ISO 9921). The multi-component interventions were performed afterward based on the data collected. A baseline assessment and a 9-month follow-up assessment were conducted. The results showed a significant decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (shoulders, elbows, and low back), physical discomfort, and awkward working postures after the intervention. A considerable improvement was also found in speech intelligibility post-intervention. The post-intervention questionnaire survey also indicated that employees generally favored the redesigned workstations. The results support the effectiveness of implementing multi-component interventions in open-plan bank offices to improve musculoskeletal complaints and speech communication.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Associated Risk Factors Among the Patients Care Attendant from Selected area in Dhaka City

Background: It is essential to uncover musculoskeletal symptom prevalence and associated risk factors among the working population to establish effective prevention and intervention strategies. While studies worldwide report significant risk among patient care attendants (PCAs), evidence is lacking in the context of Bangladesh. Objectives: The study aimed to assess musculoskeletal symptom prevalence in the last 7 days and 12 months, and explore links to socio-demographic and physical risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 50 participants selected via convenient sampling from BRB hospitals in Dhaka, conducted between July 2019 and December 2019. The Modified Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire assessed musculoskeletal symptoms, their associations with socio-demographic factors, and physical risk factors among patient care attendants (PCAs). Result: The findings revealed significant musculoskeletal symptom prevalence among patient care attendants (PCAs). Neck pain was prominent at 44%, mean 1.660 (SD = ± 0.478), followed by lower back and ankle/foot at 36%, mean 1.640 (SD = ± 0.484), and knee at 26%, mean 1.740 (SD = ± 0.443). Wrist and shoulder reported 18%, mean 1.820 (SD = ± 0.388), while upper back and hip reported 8%, mean 1.920 (SD = ± 0.274). Elbow symptoms were at 4%, mean 1.960 (SD = ± 0.197). In the past 12 months, 34% reported neck pain, mean 1.660 (SD = ± 0.478), and 32% reported lower back symptoms, mean 1.680 (SD = ± 0.471). The most affected body part was the neck. Socio-demographic factors were significantly linked to musculoskeletal symptoms. Identified work-related physical risk factors included prolonged standing (90%) and slight trunk bending (54%). Frequent arm, hand, or finger movements constituted the second-highest risk at 70%. Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a significant global concern, affecting patient care attendants. Effective ergonomic management is crucial to mitigate risks, necessitating .......

Biomechanical Load of Neck and Lumbar Joints in Open-Surgery Training.

The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) like neck and back pain is high among open-surgery surgeons. Prolonged working in the same posture and unfavourable postures are biomechanical risk factors for developing MSS. Ergonomic devices such as exoskeletons are possible solutions that can reduce muscle and joint load. To design effective exoskeletons for surgeons, one needs to quantify which neck and trunk postures are seen and how much support during actual surgery is required. Hence, this study aimed to establish the biomechanical profile of neck and trunk postures and neck and lumbar joint loads during open surgery (training). Eight surgical trainees volunteered to participate in this research. Neck and trunk segment orientations were recorded using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) system during open surgery (training). Neck and lumbar joint kinematics, joint moments and compression forces were computed using OpenSim modelling software and a musculoskeletal model. Histograms were used to illustrate the joint angle and load distribution of the neck and lumbar joints over time. During open surgery, the neck flexion angle was 71.6% of the total duration in the range of 10~40 degrees, and lumbar flexion was 68.9% of the duration in the range of 10~30 degrees. The normalized neck and lumbar flexion moments were 53.8% and 35.5% of the time in the range of 0.04~0.06 Nm/kg and 0.4~0.6 Nm/kg, respectively. Furthermore, the neck and lumbar compression forces were 32.9% and 38.2% of the time in the range of 2.0~2.5 N/kg and 15~20 N/kg, respectively. In contrast to exoskeletons used for heavy lifting tasks, exoskeletons designed for surgeons exhibit lower support torque requirements while additional degrees of freedom (DOF) are needed to accommodate combinations of neck and trunk postures.

Importance of Teaching Ergonomics in Dental School Education

Aims: The aim of this study was to present the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in dental students and their ergonomics knowledge, the challenges of the implementation of ergonomics in dental school curriculum, and the teaching of ergonomics in dental courses.&#x0D; Methodology: This manuscript was supported by scientific evidence found in the literature obtained from Science Direct, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO), and National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE) databases, as well as the authors’ experience in ergonomics education and research studies.&#x0D; Results: Most dental students have reported pain in their neck, lower back, and shoulders. Although students have experienced musculoskeletal symptoms, they have a limited perception of work risk factors due to the lack of ergonomics education while in dental school. The challenges of its incorporation could be addressed through curricular revisions.&#x0D; Conclusion: Implementation of ergonomics in the dental curriculum at the beginning of preclinical training and its reinforcement later in clinical practice can prevent musculoskeletal disorders in dental students. Curricular revision needs to be accompanied by epidemiologic studies, faculty development, and timely evaluation in order to customize ergonomics educational programs in dental curriculum and identify areas of success as well as those needing improvement.

Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among Saudi radiologists: a cross-sectional multi-centre study

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders are common health problems worldwide. Several factors cause these symptoms, including ergonomics and other individual considerations. Computer users are prone to repetitive strain injuries that increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). Radiologists are susceptible to developing MSS because they work long hours analysing medical images on computers in an increasingly digitalised field. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of MSS among Saudi radiologists and the associated risk factors.MethodsThis study was a cross-sectional, non-interventional, self-administered online survey. The study was conducted on 814 Saudi radiologists from various regions in Saudi Arabia. The study's outcome was the presence of MSS in any body region that limited participation in routine activities over the previous 12 months. The results were descriptively examined using binary logistic regression analysis to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of participants who had disabling MSS in the previous 12 months. All university, public, and private radiologists received an online survey containing questions about work surroundings, workload (e.g., spent at a computer workstation), and demographic characteristics.ResultsThe prevalence of MSS among the radiologists was 87.7%. Most of the participants (82%) were younger than 40 years of age. Radiography and computed tomography were the most common imaging modalities that caused MSS (53.4% and 26.8%, respectively). The most common symptoms were neck pain (59.3%) and lower back pain (57.1%). After adjustment, age, years of experience, and part-time employment were significantly associated with increased MSS (OR = .219, 95% CI = .057–.836; OR = .235, 95% CI = 087–.634; and OR = 2.673, 95% CI = 1.434–4.981, respectively). Women were more likely to report MSS than males (OR = 2.12, 95% CI = 1.327–3.377).ConclusionsMSS are common among Saudi radiologists, with neck pain and lower back pain being the most frequently reported symptoms. Gender, age, years of experience, type of imaging modality, and employment status were the most common associated risk factors for developing MSS. These findings are vital for the development of interventional plans to reduce the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in clinical radiologists.

Musculoskeletal disorders among doctors and nursing officers : an occupational hazard of overstrained healthcare delivery system in western Rajasthan, India

BackgroundThe present study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and distribution of MSDs in different anatomical regions among Doctors and NO and to determine their ergonomic risk factors and predictors.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in an apex institution in Western India. The socio-demographic information, medical and occupational history, and other personal and work-related attributes were captured using a semi-structured questionnaire, which was developed and finalized by piloting on 32 participants (who were not part of the study). Nordic Musculoskeletal and International Physical Activity Questionnaires were used to assess MSDs and Physical activity. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.23. Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms (M.S.), Multisite Musculoskeletal Symptoms (MMS), and Widespread Musculoskeletal Symptoms (WMS) were calculated. A comparison was made to estimate the burden and distribution of MSD among Doctors and Nursing officers. Logistic regression was applied to identify the predictors of MSDs and pinpoint the risk factors associated with MSDs.ResultsA total of 310 participants, of which 38.7% were doctors, and 61.3% were Nursing Officers (NOs) were included in the study. The mean age of the respondents was 31.63 ± 4.9 years. Almost 73% (95%CI: 67.9–78.1) of participants had MSD in the last 12 months, with approximately 41.6% (95%CI: 36.1–47.3) suffering from MSDs in the previous seven days of the survey. The lower back (49.7%) and the neck (36.5%) were the most affected sites. Working in the same position for a long time (43.5%) and not taking adequate breaks (31.3%) were the highest self-reported risk factors. Females had significantly higher odds of having pain in the upper back [aOR:2.49(1.27–4.85)], neck [aOR:2.15(1.22–3.77)], shoulder [aOR:2.8 (1.54–5.11)], hips [aOR:9.46 (3.95–22.68)] and knee [aOR:3.8(1.99–7.26)].ConclusionsFemales, who are NOs, work for > 48 h per week, and fall in the obese category were significantly at more risk of developing MSDs. Working in an awkward position, treating an excessive number of patients in a day, working in the same position for a long period, performing repeated tasks, and not having enough rest breaks were significant risk factors for MSDs.

Functional Movement Patterns, Spinal Posture and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Elite Ice Hockey Players: A Cross Sectional Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate functional movement patterns and spinal posture of elite ice hockey players and to examine the association between spinal posture, prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and Functional Movement Screen (FMSTM) scores. The study included 86 elite male ice hockey players aged 18 to 38 years. Sagittal spinal curvatures were measured with a Saunders digital inclinometer, and functional movement patterns were assessed by the FMSTM. Spinal posture of the studied ice hockey players was characterized by normal kyphosis (46%) or hyperkyphosis (41%) and decreased lumbar lordosis (54%). The mean total FMSTM score was 14.8. Most of the hockey players (57%) achieved a total FMSTM score in the range of 14-17 points, whereas 28% had a total FMSTM score of <14. Seventy-two percent of the studied athletes had at least one asymmetry. Significant differences between performing the movements on the right and the left sides of the body were observed in in-line lunges (p = 0.019) and shoulder mobility sub-tests (p < 0.001). The FMSTM sub-tests performed with the lowest success rates were rotatory stability and the hurdle step. A lower score in the rotatory stability test is related to shoulder pain. It is highly important to develop appropriate exercise programs to reduce or prevent muscle imbalances in ice hockey players.

Stress and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among the Nursing Personnel of a Tertiary Hospital Unit in Greece: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Work-related musculoskeletal injuries and disorders (WMSD) are a significant cause of morbidity in the health care sector. Healthcare professionals are routinely exposed to various physical and psychosocial factors that increase the risk of developing a WMSD. Nurses are more susceptible to the manifestation of such disorders. A cross-sectional study was conducted during the second semester of 2020. The Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ) was used to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, the Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST) for stress detection, and a data collection sheet was developed for the registration of clinical, demographic, and anthropometric characteristics of the nursing personnel of the tertiary hospital unit of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. A percentage of 82% of nurses had developed at least one musculoskeletal symptom in the last 12 months. The most common anatomical areas at which symptoms were present the last 12 months were the neck (53.9%), shoulders (50.8%), and the lower back (49.5%). The same areas were also the reported anatomical regions, most affected by musculoskeletal symptoms when stress levels were high. Absence from work was associated with the onset of musculoskeletal symptoms (p<0.001), while nurses' financial expenses (out-of-pocket payment) appeared to be associated with the onset of any symptom at 12 months, musculoskeletal symptoms limiting everyday activity at 12 months, and current musculoskeletal symptoms (p=0.001, p=0.002, and p=0.002 respectively). Musculoskeletal disorders were common among the nursing personnel. Higher levels of stress were related with a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms.

A Study to Assess Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dental Practitioners

Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence and impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental practitioners. The study seeks to understand the occurrence and severity of MSDs in different anatomical regions, identify associated risk factors, and propose preventive measures through ergonomic interventions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional research design was employed, and a total of 500 dental practitioners from various institutions were recruited as the study sample. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire consisting of sections on demographic information, work-related factors, and musculoskeletal symptoms. The presence and intensity of MSD symptoms in the neck, back, shoulders, and hands were assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). A subset of 50 participants underwent an objective musculoskeletal assessment to validate self-reported symptoms. Results: The study sample included a diverse representation of dental practitioners, with an average age of 39.5 years and an average of 12.8 years of experience in dental practice. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was found to be highest in the neck region (62%), followed by the shoulders (57%), back (45%), and hands (42%). The severity of pain was rated using the VAS, revealing the discomfort experienced by dental practitioners in specific anatomical regions. Discussion: The study highlights the significant prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among dental practitioners, with the neck being the most commonly affected area. The findings underscore the importance of addressing ergonomic issues and implementing preventive measures to promote the musculoskeletal health and well-being of dental practitioners. Further research is needed to explore the association between work-related factors and MSDs among dental professionals to devise targeted interventions. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the need to assess and address MSDs among dental practitioners to enhance their occupational health and overall well-being. Implementing ergonomic interventions and promoting preventive measures are vital in reducing the burden of MSDs in the dental profession.

The association between perceived stress and musculoskeletal pain during e-learning among health-profession students

Background and Aims: Musculoskeletal pain is among students’ most common complaints while learning. University students report high-stress levels, which is a risk factor for developing musculoskeletal problems. Shift¬ing from face-to-face learning to e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic may have increased college students’ time spent on computers. This increase may lead to musculoskeletal problems. This study aimed to assess the correlation between musculoskeletal pain, stress, and time spent on e-learn¬ing among female university students. Methods: Participants were recruited through an online survey examining demographic data, students’ attitudes, the ‘Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire’ and the ‘Perceived Stress Scale’. The survey was distributed, through university email lists and social media, to medical college students at Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University in Saudi Arabia. Results: Respondents’ musculoskeletal symptoms during the seven days previous to their responses were present at the neck (55%), lower back (48%), shoulders (43%), and upper back (34%). A positive, significant, weak correlation between musculoskeletal symptoms and total time spent on e-learning (p = 0.27, p &lt; 0.01) and stress (p = 0.3, p &lt; 0.01). Students with high-stress scores and negative attitudes toward e-learning had more musculoskeletal pain intensity. Conclusions: Respondents’ high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms appears to be affected by the high stress levels associated with health-profession students’ time spent on e-learning. Students’ negative attitude toward e-learning correlates with both musculoskeletal pain and stress levels.

Adverse Effects of Prolonged Sitting Behaviour on the General Health and Posture of Medical Students

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among Medical students and to correlate the musculoskeletal adverse effects with prolonged sitting and sitting posture.&#x0D; Study Design: Analytical cross-sectional study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted online among Medical Students studying in various medical institutions across Pakistan, from Nov 2021 to Apr 2022.&#x0D; Methodology: Study included 144 Medical and Dental students, recruited through convenience sampling. Any participant currently suffering or recently recovered from a debilitating illness, physical disability, presently undergoing treatment for any chronic muscular or skeletal pain was not included in the study. A close-ended virtual questionnaire containing the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was used. &#x0D; Results: Majority of respondents 100(69.4%) sat continuously for more than 2 hours while 44(30.6%) sat for less than 2 hours in a single seating. Results of the NMQ showed that most people had pain and discomfort in shoulder, upper back, lower back and hip. Pain in the lower back was the most common complaint 93(65%). Prolonged sitting (&gt;2hours) was significantly associated with Lower back pain (p=0.004) and hip pain (p=0.019)&#x0D; Conclusion: Prolonged sitting behaviour was associated with frequent complaints of lower back discomfort. Poor posture was demonstrated to cause pain in the shoulder and upper back regions. Active workstations, intermittent walks during breaks and usage of negative desks, as well as avoidance of forward leaning posture are suggested to improve working conditions.

Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Brazilian University Drummers and Percussionists: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In recent years, the number of university drummers and percussionists in Brazil has been increasing. Extensive instrumental practice and repetitive rehearsals are related to the presence of musculoskeletal symptoms among many of these percussion instrumentalists (e.g., repique, tambourine, agogô, rattle, surdo, and snare drums). Musculoskeletal injuries increase the costs of medical exams and treatment in percussionists. The present study aimed to analyze the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in Brazilian university drummers and percussionists. An electronic survey addressing demographic features and musculoskeletal signs and symptoms was distributed via social media to university drummers and percussionists in Brazil from July to November 2021. The target sample included university drummers and percussionists over age 18 years, with no gender restrictions, more than 6 months of instrumental practice, and either enrolled in undergraduate studies for more than 1 year or completed undergraduate studies less than 1 year ago. The prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal signs and symptoms were analyzed by body region using the adapted Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. A total of 103 responses were collected from 2,640 emails sent (3.9% response rate with a 99% completion rate). Sixty participants were female (58.25%). A high frequency of pain and discomfort was reported among the students when participating in battery activities (85.58%). In the last 6 months, wrist/hand was the most involved region (50%), followed by the lower back (45.19%) and shoulders (39.42%). In the last 7 days, the three areas most affected areas when participants were active on the drums were the wrists/hands (75%), shoulders (51.92%), and upper back (33.65%). Most Brazilian university drummers and percussionists had experienced musculoskeletal pain. This pain may be related to repetitive movements, inadequate postures, or use of excessive force during performance and practice.