Risk Factors For Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

Musculoskeletal disorders of the upper and lower limb: Prevalence among patients in Eastern province, Saudi Arabia.

To determine the prevalence of upper and lower limb musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders among adult patients referred to physical therapy. Data were retrospectively analyzed from electronic health records of patients referred to physical therapy between April 2021 and April 2023. MSK disorders were categorized based on the affected body region (upper or lower limb). A total of 11,243 patients were referred to physical therapy, of whom 4,156 (37%) had MSK disorders. The 4 most commonly affected regions were the knee (27.7%), followed by the shoulder (26.9%), the ankle/foot (14.9%), and the wrist/hand (11.8%). Within each region, the most prevalent disorders were as follows: knee (arthritis [26.5%], sprain/strain [20.1%], pain [10.1%]); shoulder (pain [20.2%], rotator cuff-related syndrome [18.5%], adhesive capsulitis [8.5%]); ankle/foot (sprain/strain [23.3%], fracture [14.3%], pain [8.9%]); and wrist/hand (fracture [24.1%], pain [8.9%], sprain/strain [7.6%]). Cramer's V analysis revealed a strong association between age and the region of MSK disorders (Cramer's V=0.234, p<0.001) and between patient sex and the region of MSK disorders (Cramer's V=0.189, p<0.001). This study demonstrates the prevalence of upper and lower limb MSK disorders among adult patients referred to physical therapy. Further research involving larger, representative samples is warranted to fully understand the prevalence and risk factors of MSK disorders in Saudi Arabia.

Study of musculoskeletal disorders risk factors and discomfort in sculptors in the north of Mexico

BACKGROUND: The sculpting craft must adopt awkward postures that lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort (MD) and its associations with postural risk factors, demographics, and work characteristics among sculptors. They were determined the differences between MDs during the weeks of the study. METHODS: A longitudinal study was conducted; MD was investigated using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Posture was assessed using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment method (RULA). Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) models analyzed associations with different factors. ANOVA was used to test for differences in MD prevalence. RESULTS: The analysis included 585 responses by body region. The prevalence of MD was high in the lower and upper limbs among sculptors (67.6%), with the lower back, upper arm, neck, and knees being the four most affected regions. Gender (female) (OR = 2.15), marital status (married) (OR = 1.80), health risk (obesity), the dual of a secondary job (OR = 1.94), job stress (OR = 2.10), duration of work (OR = 2.01), and difficulty keeping up with work (OR = 2.00) were significant predictors contributing to the occurrence of MD in different body regions. Only shoulder MD prevalence showed significant differences between study weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Sculptors suffer from MD. Demographic and work characteristic factors influence MD prevalence. Postural training, improved adaptation of work organization, and intervention guidance on ergonomic risks may reduce the prevalence of MD and the risk of MSDs in this population.

Trends and risk factors in musculoskeletal disorders among stomatologists

Introduction: Stomatologists face musculoskeletal disorders due to inadequate postures and unfavorable ergonomic conditions at work, with an increase in risk with work experience, underscoring the importance of prevention. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on musculoskeletal disorders in stomatologists in Guanabacoa, Havana, with 48 participants. Data were collected by means of surveys and postural observations, respecting ethical principles and obtaining informed consent. Results and discussion: This study shows that stomatologists between 35 and 44 years old are the most affected by musculoskeletal disorders, with the majority having between 11 and 20 years of work experience. Women present more disorders than men, although there is no statistical association between gender and disorders. It is highlighted that inadequate postures during work, especially in the cervical area and shoulders, may contribute to these problems. In addition, technical problems in dental units may also play a role. It is essential to consider working postures and ergonomic conditions to prevent these disorders. Conclusion: A high frequency of risk factors was observed, being for the female sex and the EGI specialty the most common. A preference was found for seated work and the use of inadequate postures, which resulted in a greater number of affections in the cervical region and shoulders. In addition, a close relationship was established between inadequate postures and non-ergonomic dental units with the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders.

Trends and risk factors in musculoskeletal disorders among stomatologists

Introduction: Dentists, due to their work, are prone to suffer problems in the locomotor system, a situation that can sometimes limit their work performance. These problems can cause anything from mild musculoskeletal symptoms to incapacity, putting not only their health at risk but also severely reducing their professional performance. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive observational epidemiological study was carried out with a sample of 35 stomatologists of both sexes. The stomatologists' data were recorded in self-recognition surveys and data collection forms, in order to group the individual, biomechanical and ergonomic risk factors present in the sample. Results: The female sex predominated with 71.4%, as well as the age group 35 to 44 years (42.8%). Musculoskeletal disorders prevailed in the female sex with 62.8%, the most affected specialty, the EGI with 42.9%, stomatologists with 11 to 20 years of work (37.1%). Predominant was the preference for seated work (74.3%) and the use of inadequate postures (65.7%). The cervical and sacrolumbar areas were the most affected 85.7% and 57.1% respectively. Conclusions: A close relationship was found between inadequate postures and non-ergonomic dental units with the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders in the stomatologists in the sample.

Effects of an exoskeleton on muscle activity in tasks requiring arm elevation: Part I - Experiments in a controlled laboratory setting.

Long-term work with elevated arms, or overhead work, is a risk factor for musculoskeletal complaints and disorders. Upper-limb exoskeletons are a promising tool for reducing occupational workload when working with hands above shoulder level. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of upper-limb exoskeleton on muscular and physical strain and perceived exertion during dynamic work at four different shoulder joint angles. Further, we evaluated if there are any negative effects associated with the use of exoskeleton. A total of 15 student participants performed dynamic work in laboratory setting with and without an exoskeleton at four different shoulder angles: 60, 90, 120 and 150 degrees. Muscle electrical activity from 8 muscles of the upper body, perceived exertion, and heart rate were measured during the work task, and grip strength, muscle stiffness, tone, and elasticity from six muscles, m. deltoideus physiological cross-sectional area and muscle fiber pennation angle, and nerve conduction velocity were measured before and after the work task. Based on the results, the use of exoskeleton significantly reduced the muscle activity of the upper limb, shoulder, and back muscles. The reduction was most significant when the arm elevation was 120°, and in m. deltoideus muscle activity. RPE was also positively affected indicating reduction in workload when using exoskeleton. The results suggest that the use of upper limb exoskeleton has potential to reduce physical workload during overhead work and, consequently, reduce the risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Development and evaluation of the ARM algorithm: A novel approach to quantify musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in manual wheelchair users in the real world.

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the ARM (arm repetitive movement) algorithm using inertial measurement unit (IMU) data to assess repetitive arm motion in manual wheelchair (MWC) users in real-world settings. The algorithm was tested on community data from four MWC users with spinal cord injury and compared with video-based analysis. Additionally, the algorithm was applied to in-home and free-living environment data from two and sixteen MWC users, respectively, to assess its utility in quantifying differences across activities of daily living and between dominant and non-dominant arms. The ARM algorithm accurately estimated active and resting times (>98%) in the community and confirmed asymmetries between dominant and non-dominant arm usage in in-home and free-living environment data. Analysis of free-living environment data revealed that the total resting bout time was significantly longer (P = 0.049) and total active bout time was significantly shorter (P = 0.011) for the non-dominant arm. Analysis of active bouts longer than 10 seconds showed higher total time (P = 0.015), average duration (P = 0.026), and number of movement cycles per bout (P = 0.020) for the dominant side. These findings support the feasibility of using the IMU-based ARM algorithm to assess repetitive arm motion and monitor shoulder disorder risk factors in MWC users during daily activities.

A Natural Language Processing-Based Classification and Mode-Based Ranking of Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors

This research explores the intricate landscape of Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) risk factors, employing a novel fusion of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques and mode-based ranking methodologies. Enhancing knowledge of MSD risk factors, their classification, and their relative severity is the main goal of enabling more focused preventative and treatment efforts. The study benchmarks eight NLP models, integrating pre-trained transformers, cosine similarity, and various distance metrics to categorize risk factors into personal, biomechanical, workplace, psychological, and organizational classes. Key findings reveal that the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) model with cosine similarity attains an overall accuracy of 28%, while the sentence transformer, coupled with Euclidean, Bray–Curtis, and Minkowski distances, achieves a flawless accuracy score of 100%. Using a 10-fold cross-validation strategy and performing rigorous statistical paired t-tests and Cohen’s d tests (with a 5% significance level assumed), the study provides the results with greater validity. To determine the severity hierarchy of MSD risk variables, the research uses survey data and a mode-based ranking technique parallel to the classification efforts. Intriguingly, the rankings align precisely with the previous literature, reaffirming the consistency and reliability of the approach. “Working posture” emerges as the most severe risk factor, emphasizing the critical role of proper posture in preventing MSD. The collective perceptions of survey participants underscore the significance of factors like “Job insecurity”, “Effort reward imbalance”, and “Poor employee facility” in contributing to MSD risks. The convergence of rankings provides actionable insights for organizations aiming to reduce the prevalence of MSD. The study concludes with implications for targeted interventions, recommendations for improving workplace conditions, and avenues for future research. This holistic approach, integrating NLP and mode-based ranking, contributes to a more sophisticated comprehension of MSD risk factors and opens the door for more effective strategies in occupational health.

Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia: Evidence from a workplace cross-sectional study.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Shopkeepers are prone to developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, but they are largely overlooked in research and policy actions, particularly in developing countries. So far, there is a lack of data on the magnitude and factors influencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Ethiopia. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in Gondar City, Ethiopia. A workplace-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022, in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 625 shopkeepers. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Analysis was made using Stata version 14. Factors associated with the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders were identified using the multivariable Poisson regression model. The adjusted prevalence ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-value < 0.05 were applied to establish the significance of associations. The overall prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers in the past 12 months was found to be 81.1% (N = 507). The most frequently affected body part was the lower back (46.6%), followed by the upper back (43.8%) and shoulder (35.4%). Being female (p = 0.043), being in the age group of ≥40 years (p = 0.028), being overweight (p = 0.035), experiencing job stress (p = 0.006) and prolonged sitting (p = 0.045) were significant factors for the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among shopkeepers. This study revealed that shopkeepers face an alarmingly high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Female, older, overweight, stressed and shopkeepers who sit in the same position for long periods of time were identified as particularly vulnerable groups. These findings call for the urgent development and implementation of preventive measures, including ergonomic adjustments, education and training programs, stress management techniques and the promotion of physical activity, to protect this vulnerable workforce from the debilitating effects of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and to ensure their long-term health and well-being.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Disorders in School Teachers During the Pre-covid and Pandemic Phases in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka – a Cross-sectional Study

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among school teachers in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study included 254 secondary and pre-university teachers who completed a questionnaire. Results indicated a higher prevalence of MSDs among teachers working from home during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. Factors such as days worked per week, hours of work per day, duration of rest taken per day, posture while using books, laptops, and phones, working activities, and physical exercises without supervision were identified as contributing factors to MSDs. Interestingly, the study found that the working environment did not significantly affect the prevalence of MSDs. These findings highlight the importance of addressing ergonomic issues and promoting healthy work practices among teachers, especially during periods of remote work.

Causal association of leisure sedentary behavior and cervical spondylosis, sciatica, intervertebral disk disorders, and low back pain: a Mendelian randomization study.

Some studies suggest sedentary behavior is a risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to investigate the potential causal association between leisure sedentary behavior (LSB) (including television (TV) viewing, computer use, and driving) and the incidence of sciatica, intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD), low back pain (LBP), and cervical spondylosis (CS). We obtained the data of LSB, CS, IVDD, LBP, sciatica and proposed mediators from the gene-wide association studies (GWAS). The causal effects were examined by Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) test, MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode and simple mode. And sensitivity analysis was performed using MR-Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) and MR-Egger intercept test. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was conducted to investigate the independent factor of other LSB; while two-step MR analysis was used to explore the potential mediators including Body mass index (BMI), smoking initiation, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), major depressive disorder (MDD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder between the causal association of LSB and these diseases based on previous studies. Genetically associated TV viewing was positively associated with the risk of CS (OR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.25 to 2.07, p = 0.002), IVDD (OR = 2.10, 95%CI = 1.77 to 2.48, p = 3.79 × 10-18), LBP (OR = 1.84, 95%CI = 1.53 to 2.21, p = 1.04 × 10-10) and sciatica (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.45 to 2.27, p = 1.42 × 10-7). While computer use was associated with a reduced risk of IVDD (OR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.55 to 0.79, p = 8.06 × 10-6), LBP (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.40 to 0.59, p = 2.68 × 10-13) and sciatica (OR = 0.58, 95%CI = 0.46 to 0.75, p = 1.98 × 10-5). Sensitivity analysis validated the robustness of MR outcomes. MVMR analysis showed that the causal effect of TV viewing on IVDD (OR = 1.59, 95%CI = 1.13 to 2.25, p = 0.008), LBP (OR = 2.15, 95%CI = 1.50 to 3.08, p = 3.38 × 10-5), and sciatica (OR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.03 to 2.52, p = 0.037) was independent of other LSB. Furthermore, two-step MR analysis indicated that BMI, smoking initiation, T2DM may mediate the causal effect of TV viewing on these diseases. This study provides empirical evidence supporting a positive causal association between TV viewing and sciatica, IVDD and LBP, which were potentially mediated by BMI, smoking initiation and T2DM.

Occupational Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders among Workers in Dairy Diversification.

In a changing European agricultural context, diversification of dairy farms is gaining attention. This study seeks to (1) assess musculoskeletal pain prevalence associated with tasks such as butter, yogurt, and cheese production; and (2) analyze associated risks. Observing 31, mostly female, workers, we utilized the ERGOROM questionnaire, a methodology adapted from the Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, and Key Indicator Method forms. Findings revealed that tasks like load carrying (42% of workers), manual work (17%), and awkward postures (14%) resulted in musculoskeletal pain, predominantly in the lower back (65%), neck (39%), and dominant upper limb areas (shoulder: 61%, elbow: 26%, and wrist: 65%). While psychosocial risks remained low, concerns arose from workload, hygiene standards, and resource unpredictability. As dairy farming evolves from artisanal to semi-industrial, our study emphasizes the importance of ergonomic adaptations to protect farmers' health and prevent musculoskeletal disorders during diversification.

Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among physical therapists in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

BackgroundUnderstanding risk factors linked to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is crucial for enhancing health promotion and ensuring workplace safety among healthcare professionals particularly physical therapists (PTs). However, in Vietnam, there has been lack of an investigation. Therefore, this study was to determine whether potential risk factors contributed to the occurrence of WMSDs among PTs in Ho Chi Minh City.MethodAn online self-reported questionnaire for WMSDs comprising the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), Job-risk and Environmental factors, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4) and the coping strategies, were distributed to PTs. They were enrolled if they had: age ≥ 22 years, graduated from PT program, a full-time job with ≥1 year of experience. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined using Logistic regression.ResultsOur study found that within the past 12 months, the prevalence of WMSDs was 76.4% (n = 204/267): neck 58.4% and lower back 57.3%. PTs aged 22–29 years, < 4 years of education, and < 7 years of working experience were more likely to have WMSDs 2–3 times than those who did not. After adjusting for age, education, and work experience, PTs who engaged in manual techniques/exercises, lifting/transferring patients, and maintaining awkward postures were 5–7 times more likely to have WMSDs in the neck and lower back than those who did not. Environmental and psychological factors, such as number of treatment tables, size of electrotherapy rooms, using PTs modalities, and stress were significantly associated with WMSDs. More than 50% of PTs used modified positions and new treatment/techniques that did not aggravate their symptoms, as coping strategies.ConclusionsThis study indicates potential risk factors associated with WMSDs, affecting the neck and lower back among PTs in Vietnam. These risk factors should be addressed to improve overall PTs health, retain skilled workers, and encourage them to continue working.

Risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers in Brazil: A structural equation model approach

This study aimed to verify the direct and indirect influence of risk factors on the symptoms of WMSDs in the thigh, leg, and foot among workers in the inner regions of Brazil. Research tested a structural equation model (SEM) that describes hypothetical relationships between risk factors and WMSDs. Questionnaires were used to collect data on sociodemographic, occupational, biomechanical, and psychosocial factors, and pain symptoms about 420 workers. The results showed that different factors directly affect the thigh, leg, and foot. Maintaining the lower limbs in uncomfortable positions increases the chances of developing WMSDs in the thigh (β = 0.219; p-value <0.001), leg (β = 0.223; p-value <0.001), and foot (β = 0.158; p-value <0.01). Most psychosocial factors attenuate psychosocial stress, which in turn directly alleviates WMSD symptoms in the thigh (β = −0.502; p-value <0.001), leg (β = −0.315; p-value <0.01), and foot (β = −0.246; p-value <0.01). Factors were also found to uniquely affect aspects such as “another job” (β = −0.246; p-value <0.01) in the leg and effort (β = 0.146; p-value <0.05) in the foot. It was concluded that multiple factors influence the development of WMSDs in the lower limbs. These findings contribute to the existing knowledge on the causes of WMSDs and can help improve working conditions for the population under study. Therefore, managers and health, ergonomics, and occupational safety professionals can use the findings to develop more precise strategies to reduce the impacts of WMSDs on workers.

Ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, and surgeon gender in spine surgery: a survey of practicing spine surgeons.

The objective of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the burden of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in spine surgeons, their impact on practice, and risk factors contributing to MSDs, including surgical instrument design and surgical ergonomics. An anonymous REDCap survey was distributed via email to the departments of several academic and private centers across the United States, as well as to the AANS/CNS Women in Neurosurgery Section email list. Chi-square tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare responses by gender. Multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of discomfort in instrument utilization. Survey responses were received from 120 spine surgeons (29.1% response rate), of which 73 were included in the analysis. A very high number of respondents had experienced an MSD (70.4%), 38.2% had undergone treatment for at least one MSD, and 13.4% had lost time at work for at least one MSD. Women were more likely than men to have lost time at work due to an MSD (22.6% vs 5.6%, p = 0.04). Women were more likely than men to report difficulty in instrument grip, comfort, and use on a 20-point Likert scale (mean 10.7 vs 15.2 points, p < 0.0001). This effect persisted when adjusting for glove size and days per week spent operating (p = 0.002). Specifically, women were less likely to agree that the handles of surgical instruments were an appropriate grip (p < 0.0001), that they rarely experienced difficulty when using them (p < 0.0001), and that they rarely needed to use two hands with instruments meant to be used with one hand (p = 0.0002). The MSD burden in spine surgeons is substantial. While there was no evidence of gender differences in MSD rates and severity, female surgeons report significantly more discomfort with the use of surgical instruments. There is a need for more investigation of MSD risk factors in spine surgeons and mitigation strategies. Gender differences in comfort in instrument use should be further explored and addressed by spine surgeons and device manufacturers.

Predictors of musculoskeletal disorders and job satisfaction among office workers of an oil company: A cross-sectional study in Iran.

Musculoskeletal disorders are among the significant causes of disabilities and occupational injuries all over the world and can reduce the quality of life and job satisfaction. These disorders prevail among the office workers of the Iranian Oil Company, though research on the involved factors is limited. The present study investigated the incidence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders and their association with job satisfaction among the office workers of the Iranian Oil Company. The present research was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study on 210 male office workers of the Iranian Oil Company. The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and the rate of job satisfaction were measured by Nordic Musculoskeletal and Minnesota job Satisfaction Questionnaires, respectively. The relationship between the variables was analyzed by the SPSS 28 software. The most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders among office workers in the past 12 months were associated with the neck, waist, and knee organs, with 45.70, 41, and 38.10 percentages. Smoking, second jobs, and physical injury histories were identified as three risk factors connected to musculoskeletal disorders (p < 0.05). Forty-one percent of the participants were moderately satisfied with their jobs, and this number was significantly related to musculoskeletal disorders in the shoulders, elbows, back, waist, and knees (p < 0.05). The results of this study indicate that second jobs, smoking, and physical injury histories are three risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among office workers of the Iranian Oil Company. Thus, it is imperative to identify at-risk office workers and train and encourage them to take preventive actions and employ ergonomic job equipment.

The Relationship of Obesity with Range Of Motion (ROM) On The Ankle

Introduction. Obesity is weight gain beyond the limits of physical and skeletal needs due to excessive accumulation of body fat that may increase risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders. A musculoskeletal disorder that can occur is a limited range of motion of a joint. This study aimed to identify the relationship between obesity and ankle range of motion (ROM). Methods. This study was conducted using an analytical observational study with an overall sample of 311 students who met the inclusion criteria. The sample for this study was students’ class of the Muhammadiyah Palembang's School of Medicine from 2018 to 2020 and was extracted using the total extraction method. The population of this study is Palembang students. Results. The study found that 238 students (76.5%) were not obese and 65 students (20.9%) were obese. Among obese college students, 51 college students (69.9%) had normal dorsiflexion ROM and 22 college students (30.1%) had abnormal dorsiflexion ROM. Obese students had normal plantarflexion ROM in her 20 students (27.4%) and students with abnormal plantarflexion ROM in her 53 students (72.6%). 195 students (81.9%) had normal dorsiflexion ROM and 43 students (49.7%) had abnormal dorsiflexion ROM. 185 students (77.7%) had normal plantarflexion ROM and 53 students (22.3%) had abnormal plantarflexion ROM. Conclusion. Suggesting an association between obesity and the Range of Motion (ROM) in the ankle joint.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Their Impact on Job Performance Among School Teachers in Buraydah City.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) pose a significant challenge to the well-being and productivity of individuals and various occupational groups, including teachers. Among teachers, the prevalence of MSD has raised concerns globally, impacting their daily activities and overall quality of life. Buraidah and Saudi Arabia, like many other regions, face the implications of this issue. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and associated risk factors of MSD among teachers in Buraydah, providing valuable insights into the extent of the problem and potential areas for intervention. An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted for three months, from April 1 to June 30, 2023, using the Arabic version of the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorder Questionnaire. This study was conducted in all schools in Buraydah City, Saudi Arabia. The study population was all schoolteachers (including principals, vice principals, etc.) in Buraydah City. The study analyzed responses from 648 teachers and 139 school workers using statistical tests, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models. The results indicated a notable prevalence of MSDamong teachers, with a significant association found between age, gender, and major depressive disorder (MDD) and MSD. The study reveals that females are at higher risk of MSDcompared to males, emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions. Moreover, the presence of MDD is identified as a significant contributor to MSDamong teachers. However, certain demographic and lifestyle factors, such as marital status, level of school, smoking habits, and fixed rest times, do not show significant associations with MSD. Although age and years of experience are correlated, only age is found to significantly contribute to MSD. Regular exercise and BMI also do not emerge as significant contributors, although a lack of exercise shows a marginal impact. This study's findings have implications for educational institutions and policymakers, highlighting the need for tailored interventions to address MSDamong teachers. It underscores the importance of ergonomic interventions, gender-sensitive approaches, and mental health support.

Protecting Those Who Protect Us: A Review of Psychosocial Factors and Musculoskeletal Disorders in Police Officers

Introduction: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are a common occupational health problem among police officers. This systematic review aimed to estimate the association between psychosocial factors and MSDs in this population. Design: A systematic search was conducted using the Scopus database to identify studies that assessed the psychosocial risk factors for MSDs in police officers. Results: Fourteen studies were included in the review. The findings suggest that exposure to job satisfaction, working type, job demands, shift work, working hours, job control, equipment, organisational structure, job support, work cooperation, workplace inequalities, parenthood, social support, and psychological factors were linked to the presence of pain in the back, neck, shoulder, arm, and legs among police officers. Conclusions: This review highlights the importance of addressing psychosocial risk factors to improve the quality of life of police officers. Specific interventions to reduce these risk factors might include changes in organizational structure, job design, and work schedules, as well as targeted programs to promote stress management, coping skills, and work-life balance. Addressing these factors can help to prevent or reduce the presence of MSDs in this population, promoting healthier and more productive workplaces. Future studies are recommended to investigate this association further by considering the utilization of longitudinal study designs.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal disorders among firefighters

Introduction: Due to the nature of their job, firefighters face many ergonomic risk factors and are exposed to several musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among firefighters. Materials and methods: This study was conducted based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, SID, ISC and Google Scholar without applying a time limitation until the end of July 2022. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I2 index was used to check heterogeneity among studies. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software. Results: The primary literature searches in the databases identified 1,291 articles, 26 of which were entered the meta-analysis stage after screening, study selection, and quality assessment, including 36,342 firefighters. Based on the results of a meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of MSDs among firefighters was 46.39% (95% CI: 32.45–60.32, I2 = 99.7%, P < 0.001). The prevalence of MSDs was also investigated at neck (18.36%), low back (34.32%), shoulder (18.68%), hands (7.43%), upper back (10.15%), knee (19.97%) and foot (6.66%). Conclusion: Considering the relatively high prevalence of MSDs among firefighters and their higher exposition to specific job-related risk factors of MSDs compared to other professions, it is suggested to provide firefighters with appropriate training, implement ergonomic interventions, and regularly screen them to reduce MSDs.

Changes in Neck and Shoulder Muscles Fatigue Threshold When Using a Passive Head/Neck Supporting Exoskeleton During Repetitive Overhead Tasks.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a head/neck supporting exoskeleton (HNSE) on the electromyographic fatigue threshold (EMGFT) of the neck and shoulder muscles during a simulated overhead work task. Overhead work is a well-known risk factor for neck and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders due to the excessive strain imposed on the muscles and joints in these regions. Fourteen healthy males performed a repetitive overhead nut fastening/unfastening task to exhaustion while wearing and not wearing the HNSE at two neck extension angles (40% and 80% of neck maximum range of motion). Electromyographic signals were continuously recorded from the right and left sternocleidomastoid (SCMR, SCML), splenius capitis (SCR, SCL), upper trapezius (UTR, UTL), and anterior deltoid (ADR, ADL) muscles. The normalized electromyographic amplitude (nEMG) data was time normalized, and a bisegmental linear regression was applied to determine the muscle fatigue break point. The results showed a significant increase in fatigue threshold time in the SCMR (p < .001), SCML (p = .002), and UTR (p = .037) muscles when the HNSE was used. However, the EMGFT times for the right and left deltoid and left trapezius muscles showed a nonsignificant reduction due to the head/neck support exoskeleton use. In addition, the neck extension angle did not reveal a significant effect on muscles' EMGFT time. Overall, the findings confirmed a significant delay in fatigue onset in sternocleidomastoid muscles, as measured by the electromyographic fatigue threshold. This finding suggests that the HNSE can be an effective ergonomic intervention for reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders in overhead workers. However, further studies are needed to investigate the effect of the HNSE at other neck extension angles and more realistic tasks to ensure the generalizability of our results. The present findings emphasize the application of the fatigue onset time to evaluate the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions, including exoskeletons, which can subsequently be utilized to alleviate postural demands and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.