Prevalence Of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

Association of long working hours and multi-site work-related musculoskeletal disorders among transportation industry workers in Beijing, China.

Long working hours can lead to a variety of diseases, while the relationship between long work hours and multi-site work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) remains unclear. This study aims to explore the association between working hours and multi-site WMSDs. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2636 transportation industry workers. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal disorders. Workers were grouped by weekly working hours (≤ 40h/wk, 40-55h/wk, and ≥ 55h/wk) to compare the prevalence of WMSDs. The correlation between different WMSDs sites and the influencing factors of multi-site WMSDs were analyzed by log-binomial model and logistic regression model. 897 (34.0%) participants faced long working hours. 995 (37.7%) participants suffered from WMSDs, while the highest prevalence of WMSDs symptoms occurred in neck (25.4%), followed by low back (18.4%) and shoulders (14.5%). Wrists WMSDs were associated with WMSDs in necks, shoulders, elbows, hips, and ankles (OR = 2.07-8.01). According to binary and multivariate logistic regression, the risk of WMSDs was higher in participants who worked 40-55h/wk (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.09-1.56) and more than 55h/wk (OR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.46-3.16) compared to participants who worked less than 40h/wk. Additionally, participants who worked 40-55h/wk (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.09-1.78) and more than 55h/wk (OR: 2.92, 95% CI: 1.82-4.70) were more likely to suffer from WMSDs in three or more sites. Long working hours were positively associated with multi-site WMSDs. Early preventive and management measures of long working hours and WMSDs are of importance.

Musculoskeletal Disorders in COVID-19 Surveillance Staff Members: An Analysis of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Coping Strategies.

Aims/Background During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the COVID-19 surveillance staff members experienced an increased risk for musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, it is necessary to further investigate the causal factors stemming from COVID-19 surveillance work, especially nucleic acid testing, and establish their relationship with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) by building upon the previous research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and the major risks faced by the COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2022. The Quick Exposure Check (QEC), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were used to evaluate ergonomic factors, musculoskeletal symptoms and pressure among 131 COVID-19 surveillance staff members in four hospitals in South-central Henan Province. Additionally, data regarding the coping strategies adopted by the respondents for lowing the risk of developing WMSDs were collected using a self-report questionnaire. Results The QEC results showed that the back, neck, and should/arm of the COVID-19 surveillance staff members bore high ergonomic loads, while the wrist suffered a medium load. The neck (75.6%), shoulder (66.4%), upper back (58%), and wrist (55.7%) were at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorder. Most of the respondents claimed a low sense of achievement (124, 94.7%) and slightly less than half of them had endured emotional exhaustion at work (61, 46.6%). Prolonged period of maintaining the same posture at work, awkward bending or twisting of back side, task repetition and so on were the perceived job risk factors precipitating WMSDs among the participants in this study. The top three coping strategies for lowering the risk of WMSDs included adjusting the plinth/bed height (49.6%), utilizing different parts of the body at work (47.3%), and taking short breaks when required (33.6%). Conclusion Prolonged large-scale nucleic acid detection can aggravate the musculoskeletal injuries of the neck, shoulder, upper back, and wrist in COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Prevention measures for musculoskeletal injuries factors must be in place to deter such incidence at work.

Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Orthopedic Surgeons in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Literature Review.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMD) complications are common in surgeons in general, but they are much higher in orthopedic surgeons. Numerous studies have explored the prevalence of WRMD among orthopedic surgeons internationally. However, little research has been carried out in Saudi Arabia on this matter. This review aimed to investigate it. A consistent and systematic search method was carried out to establish studies reporting the prevalence of WRMD among orthopedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia. The search comprised published research from 2000 to June 2024. Nine eligible studies were incorporated for analysis, which involved 490 participants. The prevalence documented in these studies has exhibited an upward trend in recent years, with reported rates ranging from 36% to 90.3%. The most frequent anatomic site is found to be the lower back. There is a significant association between WRMD, smoking, and increasing age. The prevalence of WRMD is elevated among orthopedics based on existing information in the literature. Hospitals, along with orthopedic residency programs offering orthopedic-specialized ergonomics or occupational injury lectures as well as workshops, may help equip surgeons with the necessary knowledge and skills for addressing this issue.

The interplay of stress and work-related musculoskeletal disorders in dental practitioners.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among general dental practitioners and orthodontists is approximated to range between 64% and 93%. Etiology of WRMSDs in the mentally and physically demanding occupation remains unclear, for which reason the aim of the study was to clarify the interplay of physical, psychological, and mental factors on WRMSDs. Of 94 orthodontists and 187 general dental practitioners (mean age = 35 years) questioned using an online survey, 84% reported persisting tension or pain in the back, neck, or shoulders. While 71% of females were employed (29% self-employed), only 39% of male participants were employed. Cluster analysis was used to characterize dental practitioners according to their movement profile and the moderating effect of stress on certain WRMSDs. Three movement profiles of general dental practitioners and orthodontists were significantly predictive of WRMSD. The minority could be characterized as healthy (n = 45), whereas twice as many reported nearly twice as much pain (n = 90). Stress proved to be a strong, significant moderator of WRMSDs in relation to sex, employment status, and body mass index. The prevalence of WRMSDs found was alarming. Given the feminization of dentistry, and that being female, stressed, and an employee (rather than self-employed) is a significant predictor of WRMSDs, this represents a danger to the German health system.

A meta-analysis of the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among rehabilitation therapists

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in rehabilitation therapists. Methods: In September 2023, the computer searched Chinese and English databases such as CNKI database, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journal Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase database, etc. The retrieval time was from the establishment of the database to September 2023. Musculoskeletal disorders, rehabilitation therapists were selected as search terms, and the author, publication time, prevalence rate, and study type were analyzed. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) tool and The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) were used to evaluate the quality of the literature. Stata 15.0 software was used for meta-analysis. Results: A total of 28 literatures were included, including 8039 rehabilitation therapists. Meta-analysis showed that the overall prevalence rate of WMSDs among rehabilitation therapists was 72% (95%CI: 64%-80%). The top 3 annual prevalence rates were lower back (51%, 95%CI: 38%-64%), neck (42%, 95%CI: 30%-54%) and shoulder (32%, 95%CI: 23%-41%). The top 3 weekly prevalence rates were lower back (47%, 95%CI: 28%-65%), neck (35%, 95%CI: 14%-55%) and back (30%, 95% CI: 17%-44%) . Conclusion: The higher prevalence of WMSDs in rehabilitation therapists, especially in the lower back, neck, shoulder and back, may be related to the prolonged stouching posture and the continuous or repeated exertion of the upper limbs.

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.

Prevalence and Predictors of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Bus Drivers Engaged in Long- Distance Transportation in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Background An increasing number of occupational injuries occur due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in both developing and industrialized countries. These disorders have an impact on workers' health as well as society at large, posing medical, occupational, and economic challenges.  Objectives This research assessed work-related musculoskeletal disorders and its risk factors among Bus drivers for private long-distance Transport Companies in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.  Materials and Methods This study employed a cross-sectional study design. The multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample 338 long-distance bus drivers in the city of Port Harcourt. Participants' demographic data and information regarding work related musculoskeletal disorders were collected using a modified version of the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Survey questionnaire. Descriptive statistics determined prevalence and inferential statistics was used to determine associated risk factors of WRMSD. The p-value of the test of statistical significance was set at ≤0.05. The participants were all male.  Result 58.6% of the research sample had WRMSDs, according to the findings. After logistic regression analysis, only marital status (AOR=5.714, 95% CI for AOR=3.046- 10.721; p=0.001), prolonged sitting of ≥8 hours, (AOR=0.350; 95% CI for AOR=0.166-0.741; p=0.006) and previous history of pain in a previous occupation (AOR=5.714, 95% CI for AOR=3.046-10.721; p=0.001), were significantly associated with the prevalence of WRMSD.  Conclusion WRMSDs are prevalent in private long-distance bus drivers and are strongly correlated with marrital status, prolonged sitting times (more than eight hours), and a history of muscle or joint discomfort in a prior job.

High Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study From Kerala, India.

Literature on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), work ability, and associated factors among dentists is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSD, work ability, and associated factors among dentists in Kerala, India. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 dentists (median age: 34 years, 47% male), selected from a list of dentists in a district of Kerala. Information on MSD and work ability were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire administered both online and through direct interviews. Factors associated with MSD were analyzed using multivariable regression analysis. The prevalence of MSD in the past 12 months was 86.9% (95% CI: 83.1 - 90.9), and in the past seven days was 42.4% (95% CI: 36.7 - 48.08). Among those reporting MSD in the last 12 months, 21.4% experienced it in two sites. Of the nine regions assessed, the neck was the most affected over the past 12 months, with 57.6% reporting discomfort, while the lower back was the most affected in the last seven days (21.4%). Work ability was rated as excellent by 24.5% of participants and good by 51.7%. In the regression analysis, no significant association was found between socioeconomic factors and MSD during either time period. However, bivariate analysis showed that dentists who were overweight and those aged 34 years or older reported significantly more knee-related MSD in the past seven days (p=0.033 and p=0.037, respectively). Despite the high prevalence of MSD among dentists, more than three-fourths reported good or excellent work ability. Implementing mandatory ergonomic assessments and interventions in dental workplaces may help reduce MSD among dentists.

PHOTOVOICE: A STRATEGY FOR IDENTIFY NURSE'S SELF-PERCEPTION OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE OF MUSCULOSKELETAL RISKS

The People's self-concept contributes to their sense of identity, and if associated with methods that promote the involvement of participants, we develop knowledge that promotes causes and social change. Introduction: In recent decades, the scientific community has identified a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in nurses, as a result of work processes, high physical demands, workspaces, and the emotional and sometimes stressful association of clinical contexts. Obstetric nurses, due to their specific work, have been a group that has been little studied and, above all, little involved in research processes. Research Objective: This study aims to identify the self-perception of Obstetric nurses regarding daily activities in the labour context, which are self-perceived as high risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Methodology: A qualitative approach was used, utilising an empowering research method - Photovoice. Twenty who work full time in the delivery room took part. Photographic records were presented by the Obstetric nurses and their self-perceptions were shared through interviews. The interviews and photographs were then transcribed, analysed and categorised. Results: The average number of years as a Obstetric nurses was 14.4 years, but with 24.8 years working as a nurse. Twenty-two work activities with a potential risk to health were photographically recorded.

Analysis of Intelligent Equipment Usage for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Prevention in Miners - Shanxi Province, China, 2023.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent in the workforce and occur across various industries. Surveys show that the prevalence of WMSDs among miners is generally over 50%. High levels of intelligent equipment usage (IEU) can decrease the prevalence of WMSDs among miners by 7.49% and reduce pain by 13.69% on average. Stepwise regression analysis proved that IEU can reduce the harmful effects of workload on WMSDs. New Quality Productive Forces (NQPF) should also focus on health productivity. Disease prevention departments should consider the impact of NQPFs on occupational health and actively guide intelligent equipment design.

Sociodemographic Data and Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms in the Metal Polishing Industry: A Case Study in Central Portugal

The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders is a red flag in industries and is considered an occupational health issue that affects the operator’s well-being, safety, and health. This study contributes to understanding the impact of Industry 5.0 on the workforce and emphasizes the importance of promoting a safe and healthy working environment. Thus, it focuses on the assessment of anthropometric characteristics and work-related musculoskeletal symptoms in a real industrial environment, specifically in the metal polishing sector of a metallurgical industry in Portugal. The research collected data on physical attributes, health status, and musculoskeletal symptoms using the Portuguese version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and incorporated sociodemographic data, including age, gender, and professional status, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the active workforce. The results were analyzed by gender and age clusters and revealed a prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly in the spinal column and upper limbs, with a significant impact on the ability to perform work tasks. The need for preventive measures and ergonomic interventions to minimize the high predominance of musculoskeletal symptoms in Portuguese industries is also highlighted to improve the working conditions and enhance the well-being and health of operators.

Impact of Remedial Exercise Training on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Morbidity Among Handloom Weavers in Kanchipuram District: A Quasi-experimental Study.

The handloom weaving industry is integral to developing countries, especially in South Asia, where traditional techniques are still widely practiced. In India, the handloom sector is a significant part of the informal economy, employing millions and preserving rich cultural heritage. Despite its economic and cultural importance, the sector faces severe challenges, including poor working conditions that lead to a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study focuses on assessing the prevalence of musculoskeletal morbidity and the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in reducing WMSDs among handloom weavers in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre- and post-test design conducted over 12 months. A total of 121 handloom weavers from four major cooperative societies in Kanchipuram were selected using multistage sampling. Inclusion criteria were adults over 18 years, full-time weavers with more than a year of experience, and those who consented to participate. The study involved initial data collection through interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess pain prevalence. The intervention phase included physiotherapy exercise training thrice a week for three months, followed by post-intervention data collection and analysis. Pre-intervention data indicated high prevalence rates of musculoskeletal pain, with 62% of participants reporting knee pain and 54.5% reporting ankle/foot pain over the past year. Post-intervention assessments showed significant reductions in pain across all body parts, with the most substantial decreases in knee and shoulder pain. For instance, knee pain scores decreased from 3.10 ± 2.61 to 1.81 ± 1.69. The overall mean pain rating significantly dropped from 1.72 ± 0.88 pre-intervention to 1.00 ± 0.50 post-intervention, demonstrating the effectiveness of the physiotherapy exercises. The study confirms the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among handloom weavers and demonstrates the significant impact of physiotherapy interventions in alleviating pain. Implementing regular physiotherapy exercises can substantially improve the well-being and productivity of handloom weavers, ensuring the sustainability of this vital cultural and economic industry. The results advocate for policy changes and increased support for ergonomic and health interventions in the handloom sector.

Prevalence of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Associated Factors Among Coffee Processing Factory Workers in Addis Ababa and Gelan City in Ethiopia, 2023

<i>Background</i>: Globally, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) account for around 40% of the total compensated cost of occupational diseases and injuries. It has a huge impact on the public health problems and economic loss of the society. There was few information about prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal diseases associated with job among coffee processors in Ethiopia. <i>Objective</i>: The study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among coffee processing factory workers. <i>Methods</i>: A cross-sectional study was utilized to assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders from March to June-2023. Data were collected by face-to-face interview using a standardized Nordic questionnaire. Simple random sampling method was used to select 633 of study participants. EPInfo version 7.1 was used to enter and cleaned up the data and exported into SPSS version 23 software for further statistical analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to determine potential predictors of MSDs. <i>Results</i>: The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders over the course of a year was 529 (83.6%). The limbs (64.5%) and shoulders (64.5%) were most commonly affected, followed by the neck (61.8%), upper back (60.2%), lower back (54.0%), and hands (51.2%). The final multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male [AOR: 1.8, 95%CI: 1.1, 2.9], married [AOR: 2.2, 95%CI: 1.3, 3.8], physical activity habit [AOR: 2.2, 95%CI: 1.1, 4.2], work-related stress [AOR: 2.0, 95%CI: 1.3, 3.4], health and safety training [AOR: 2.6, 95%CI: 1.1, 5.9], working hours [AOR: 3.0, 95%CI: 1.2, 7.5] and repetitive work [AOR: 2.0, 95%CI: 1.1, 3.5] were found to be statistically significant associating factors with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. <i>Conclusion</i>: In this study the prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorder was high. Sex, marital status, habit of doing physical exercise, job related stress, work hours, health and safety training work place were statistically significant factors to work related musculoskeletal disorder.

Enhancing physiotherapy department design to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders: Vision of future research.

The increasing prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) necessitates a reevaluation of physiotherapy department design. Optimizing these spaces is crucial as they serve as primary settings for preventing and managing WRMSDs, highlighting the need for a forward-thinking approach. This study aims to outline a vision for future research by identifying key strategies to prevent WRMSDs and enhance operational efficiency in physiotherapy departments. Ergonomics, workplace safety, and physiotherapy practices formed the basis for this paper in identifying the current challenges and opportunities in departmental design. Expert insights and feedback from healthcare practitioners aiding in the formulation of innovative solutions and recommendations for future research endeavors. Integration of ergonomic principles, advanced technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and proactive safety measures into physiotherapy department design improve working environments for physiotherapists. Envisioning the future of physiotherapy department design offers promising avenues for improving patient care outcomes and supporting therapist well-being.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among surgeons: a bibliometric analysis from 1982 to 2024

Surgeons are exposed to a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The scientific issues surrounding this problem are generating a growing body of work. The aim of this study is to obtain quantitative and visual information from articles about WMSDs and surgeons through bibliometric analysis. The keywords “surgeon” and “work-related musculoskeletal disorders” were searched in the PubMed/Medline database until March 2024. Data extraction and visualization were performed using VOSviewer version 1.6.20. and Microsoft Excel on the overall distribution of publications by year, sources, articles, authors and keywords. A total of 173 English-language publications were extracted between 1982 and 2024. The number of publications has increased over the years. A significant increase was observed from 2016. America is the leader with 82/173 publications (47.4%) and 3,276 citations. Work [impact factor (IF): 2.3] is the first top source which has 7 articles followed by Surgical Endoscopy (IF: 3.1) with 5 publications. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation (IF: 3.3) is the top journal with 681 citations for 2 publications. Hallbeck MS, Yu D, and Vijendern A are the most productive authors with 23 publications. The analysis showed that the United States and the UK are the two most productive countries (journals, authors, citations). The most frequently used keywords were “ergonomics”, “musculoskeletal disorders”, “work-related musculoskeletal disorders”, and “surgeons”. Bibliometric analysis has shown that the prevalence of WMSDs in surgeons is a topic showing significant growth, particularly since 2016, dominated by American researchers. A synthesis of the WMSD prevalence by body area has been made based on the most cited articles. This field has evolved considerably. From a rather subjective analysis of prevalence based on questionnaires, work has moved towards a more ergonomic assessment using objective evaluation tools.

Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD) Among Office Workers in University of Cyberjaya

Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD) Among Office Workers in University of Cyberjaya

Risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms among industrial workers in Peninsular Malaysia

Objectives. The prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) globally is notably high. There are a limited number of studies investigating WMSDs and their associated risk factors. However, there are currently no data available for WMSDs among industrial workers in Peninsular Malaysia. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of WMSDs and associated risk factors among industrial workers experiencing WMSDs through their daily working tasks. Methods. A quantitative study using a questionnaire was conducted among industrial workers from rehabilitation centres and factories in Peninsular Malaysia. The analysis of 232 participant narratives aimed to identify the correlation between job tasks and musculoskeletal pain, especially in case of repetitive and heavy handling tasks. Results. The prevalence of WMSDs among industrial workers stands at 93.1%. The results also indicate that the most affected part of the body was the lower back, with 62.1% for 7 days or more in the last year, caused by industrial workers’ job tasks. The prominent risk factors associated with body parts include gender, age, working hours and most difficult tasks with MSDs, especially in the lower back. Conclusion. This survey helps us to understand whether the workers are experiencing any discomfort, pain or disability related to workplace activities.

Prevalence of work–related musculoskeletal disorders for teaching & non-teaching personnel of Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation Inc: A correlation study

The study aimed to answer the questions: (1) Is there prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation Inc. (DRTREFI) teaching and non-teaching personnel; (2) Is there a significant relationship between WMSDs and (a) demographics, (b) environmental factors, & (c) ergonomic factors. A descriptive observational study with a correlational design was utilized. There were 126 respondents in total, consisting of 52 teaching personnel and 74 non-teaching personnel from DRTREFI. Respondents met the inclusion criteria of having worked at the institution for at least one year and experienced pain or discomfort in any body region in the past two months. The study mainly utilized two questionnaires namely the Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders for teaching & non-teaching personnel of Dona Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation Inc. Questionnaire (PWMSDTNTP), a researcher-made questionnaire, and the Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder Form which was based on the Nordic Questionnaire. The lower back has the highest reported incidence of discomfort for the past 12 months (53.96%) and past seven days (24.60%), with the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand, upper back, thighs/hips, knees, and ankles, also having reports of pain and discomfort. There was a relevant correlation between discomfort experienced by the respondents and the demographic, environmental, & ergonomic factors with p values less than 0.05.The study concluded that WMSDs were prevalent in DRTREFI teaching and non-teaching personnel. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between demographic profiles, environmental factors, and ergonomic factors with WMSDs among the respondents.

Social determinants and work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Brazil.

This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) and their association with individual and contextual factors in the Brazilian population. This quantitative cross-sectional study used secondary data from the Brazilian National Health Survey from August 2013 to February 2014. The dependent variable included WMSD, and independent variables were analyzed as individual and contextual factors. WMSD was mostly prevalent in females, individuals aged 43 to 59 years, with chronic physical or mental disorders, reporting frequent sleep disorders, and performing integrative and complementary health practices, physical exercise or sports, and heavy physical activity or housework. Regarding contextual factors, high social classes and proportion of individuals with formal work were associated with a high prevalence of WMSD, whereas a high Gini index was associated with a low prevalence. Thus, a high prevalence of WMSD in the Brazilian population was associated with individual and contextual factors, which should be the target of health professionals for actions of promotion, prevention, and intervention at individual or collective care levels.

Ergonomic Design as a Determinant for the Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office-Based Civil Servants in Ondo State, Nigeria

Several reformations in the Civil Service have transformed the day-to-day activities in the sector from paper to the use of computer sets. However, the use of computer is characterized with high sedentary lifestyles and repetitive tasks among office-based workers, but there are limited studies conducted to evaluate the effect of this new working condition among civil servants. This study was conducted to investigate ergonomic design as a determinant of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office-based Civil Servants in Ondo State, Nigeria. Ethical approval was obtained for this study. The study was a cross-sectional design using multistage sampling techniques to recruit 308 respondents. Structured and adapted questionnaires were used to assess ergonomic designs in offices and prevalence of pain. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20, descriptive statistics was used for sociodemographic of respondents and Spearman rho’s correlation coefficient was used to compare relationship between variables. Results were presented in tables and charts. Majority of the respondents were female, married and between the ages 30-34. The mean age of the respondents was 36.21±8.75 years. 35 of the respondents were confounders and were exempted from completing the study on pain. There was 92.7%, 59.1% and 19.4% of 12 months, one week and point pain prevalence respectively among the 273 respondents that participated fully in the study. Most respondents have poor knowledge of ergonomics (61.9%) but 96.7% have good ergonomic practices (96.7%). There was no significant relationship between ergonomic design and prevalence of WRMSD (r=0.090, p=0.136), but there was a significant relationship between ergonomic practice and ergonomic awareness (r=0.247, p=0.001). Also, there was significant relationship between office ergonomic practice and prevalence of WRMSD (r=-0.142, p=0.019). Ergonomic design is not a determinant for the prevalence of WRMSD. However, the knowledge and correct practice of ergonomic among office-based civil servants can help to reduce the prevalence of WRMSD. Therefore, it is recommended that government should ensure the implementation of correct ergonomic practices in Civil Service. Also, government should provide regular trainings such as seminars and conferences on ergonomics for their workers.