Standardized Nordic Questionnaire Research Articles

The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and Assessment of Potential Risk Factors Among a Sample of Medical Students in Giza, Egypt.

Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is one of the most prevalent conditions among global medical students, affecting their daily lifestyle. In this study, we seek to determine the prevalence of MSP and its associated risk factors in a sample of medical students at Misr University for Science and Technology, Egypt. A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024, with asample size of 1472 students who filled out a modified version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. Demographic variables, study hours, and special habits were collected and analyzed. The prevalence of MSP in the past week and year was documented and analyzed using common risk factors. A total of 971 responses were considered for analysis (66% of the total sample size and 27.7% of the total medical students). The majority were between 18 and 25 years old, with 50.7% males and 49.3% females. The median age was 21 (20-23) years. Most of the students were in their fifth year (23.8%). The prevalence of at least one MSPsite was 459 (47.2%) in the past week and 702 (72.2%) in the past year. MSP in the past year was significantly associated with females (OR = 2.45, 95% CI = 1.82-3.3, p = 0.001) and those with a family history of autoimmune disease (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.3-3.5, p = 0.001), while it was significantly associatedin the past week with females(OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.3-2.2, p = 0.001) and those with a personal history of autoimmune disease (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.09-4.7, p = 0.025). In the past year, neck pain was significantly associated with females (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.42-3.27, p = 0.001) and those with a family history of autoimmune disease (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.01-2.08, p = 0.047). Students living inside October city were less likely to have neck pain in the past yearthan those who lived outside October city(OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.56-0.94, p = 0.017). Shoulder pain in the past year was significantly associated with females (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 2.1-3.98, p = 0.001) and those with a family history of autoimmune disease (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.28-2.81, p = 0.001) while back pain in the past year was significantly associated with females (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.6-2.7, p = 0.001). Gender was the only factor that was associated with MSP on multivariate regression analysis for the past week (p = 0.001) and past year (p = 0.001). MSP is highly prevalent among medical students in Egypt, especially females, those with a personal history of autoimmune disease, and those with a family history of autoimmune disease. Despite the high prevalence and the effect on daily lifestyle, very few medical students sought help. More studies are needed to evaluate other risk factors and effective approaches to alleviate MSP among medical students in Egypt.

Hand Tool Intervention for Rubber Tappers Using Modified Michie Golledge Knife

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives Rubber tapping is a physically demanding and skilled agricultural operation that can cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This research investigated the impact of using an ergonomically modified rubber tapping knife on the hand posture of rubber tappers. Methods Initially, a postural assessment was conducted using CATIA V6 modelling software followed by a non-randomized longitudinal study with 32 rubber tappers. In the second phase, the study used a custom-modified Standard Nordic Questionnaire, video recordings, and direct observations. The study compared the results of the ergonomically modified rubber tapping knife with the traditional tapping knife, evaluating hand grip strength, endurance time chip thickness, time required to complete 300 trees, and posture using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool. Results Compared to pre-tapping values, the mean reduction in grip strength after tapping was significantly less with the modified rubber tapping knife than with the traditional tapping knife (2.96 kg, SD 0.85 kg vs 7.31 kg SD 2.13 kg). Similarly, the reduction in hand endurance time was less with the modified knife than with the traditional knife (1.78 seconds, SD 0.47 seconds vs 3.34 seconds, SD 0.87 seconds). The study also indicated that the modified knife did not significantly affect chip thickness. Additionally, a slight increasing in tapping time was observed with the ergonomically modified knife, which may be attributed to a learning curve phenomenon. This suggests that as rubber tappers become more accustomed to the new tool, their efficiency may improve over time. Conclusion The hand grip strength and endurance time was significantly lower with the ergonomically modified tapping knife. The study concluded that using an ergonomically modified tapping knife led to a significant improvement in hand posture among rubber tappers.

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.

Cost-Effectiveness of a Multi-faceted Workplace Intervention to Reduce Musculoskeletal Pain in Nursing Staff: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial (INTEVAL_Spain).

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a multifaceted workplace intervention to reduce musculoskeletal pain (MSP) in nursing staff. The study was a 1-year cluster-randomized controlled trial. The intervention combined participatory ergonomics, health promotion, and case management. The control group received usual care. Societal and health system perspectives were used. Costs included direct health and indirect costs. The effects were MSP and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). MSP was measured using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire at baseline and 6- and 12-month follow-up. QALYs were measured using the EuroQol-5D-3L at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Incremental costs and QALYs were modelled using generalized linear models. MSP was analysed through generalized logistic models. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated, and cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves were constructed. Total mean costs per person were €614 and €216 for the intervention and control group, respectively, with a societal perspective. The intervention mean cost was €38/person. From the societal perspective, the ICER showed that overall additional €68 (€9 from a health system perspective) were required to achieve 1-extra-percentage-point reduction of MSP. ICERs were €34 from the societal and €4 from the health system perspectives for neck, shoulders and upper back pain; €53 and €7 for low back; €179 and €23 for hands; €39 and €5 for legs; €115 and €14 for the knees; €36 and €5 for feet For MSP in the elbows. For participants with pain in the elbow, and for QALYs, the ICER showed that the intervention group was dominated by the control group. This intervention was not cost-effective in terms of QALYs. However, in terms of MSP, with a willingness to pay of €100, the probability of the intervention being cost-effective was around 90%. Further studies incorporating our recommendations are needed to confirm these findings. ISRCTN15780649, retrospectively registered.

Prevalence of Low Back Pain and Its Associated Factors Among Medical Students at Nineveh University in Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Low back pain (LBP) is a common problem encountered in medical practice, leading to limitations in daily activities and causing social and economic hardships. Objectives This study aimed to assess the prevalence of LBP and its associated factors among medical students at Nineveh University in Iraq. Methods Between December 2022 and January 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students at Nineveh University. A modified version of the Standard Nordic Questionnaire was used for data collection. Results Out of 308 students, 229 (74.4%) experienced LBP at some point in their lives. In addition, 209 (67.9%) reported having LBP during the last 12 months, 148 (48.1%) during the previous seven days, and 126 (40.9%) at the time of answering the survey. Factors significantly associated with LBP during the last 12 months were being in the fifth-stage academic year (p=0.047), family history of LBP (p=0.003), and history of trauma (p=0.006). On the multivariable logistic regression analysis, factors significantly associated with LBP during the last 12 months were family history of LBP (p=0.02) and history of trauma (p=0.01). Conclusions The prevalence of LBP among medical students at Nineveh University was comparatively high. A family history of LBP and a history of trauma were factors significantly associated with LBP during the last 12 months. Managing this health concern should be a priority for the administration of medical schools.

Comparison of Work-related Musculoskelatal Disorders among Working Women and Housewives

Background: Musculoskeletal conditions are the most common cause of physical and functional limitations among both working and nonworking population. A 45% increase has been observed over 20 years in these conditions due to changes in lifestyle and activities. Nearly 25% of the overall population in under developed countries complain of MSK symptoms which decrease their functional capacity by restricting them with pain. Objective: To find out the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and compare them between housewives and working women. Methodology: This study was conducted on 57 females aged between 23 to 35, women with primary gravida; both housewives as well as working women were included for the study. Any participants with musculoskeletal/neurological/ psychological/ psychiatric / dermatological/ deficit or disorders that can affect the study were excluded. For the collection of the data, standardized Nordic Questionnaire was used. An informed consent was taken from the study participants. SPSS 25 was used for data analysis. Results: The overall mean age of the participating women was 28.97 years. Among the total population, 22 (46.4%) were housewives and 35 (53.6%) were working women. Among the working women, 12 (25.0%) worked part time (5-6 hours), 15 (20.4%) worked full time (8-10 hours) and 8 (6.1%) worked other hours. Conclusion: The upper limb regions were more commonly affected among the working women with neck region (64.4%) being the most affected followed by the shoulder and upper back area. Whereas among the housewives, musculoskeletal symptoms were more frequently reported in the shoulder region (71.5%) followed by increased symptoms in the lower back, ankle/feet and the knees.

Assessment of workload and pain in hospital workers using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire -NMQ during the COVID-19 pandemic – a cross-sectional study

Abstract Aim. The aim of the study was to show the degree of advancement of pain and social problems of medical employees. Material and methods. The study was conducted in one of the hospitals in Lesser Poland. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1.11.2021 to 31.01.2022. The study group consisted of 106 participants (93 (87.7%) women and 13 (12.3%) men) from hospital wards, emergency ambulance stations, administrative employees and an analytical laboratory. The Standardized Nordic Questionnaire in the Polish version – NMQ survey was used to survey employees. The survey was conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and respondents were included in the research voluntarily. Results. Pain in the last 7 days was confirmed by 65% of the respondents, in more than 65% of the respondents the pain occurs during rest and sleep. In 64% of the subjects, pain was present on both sides of the body. The greatest pain was related to the lumbar spine in 54% of the respondents. The average pain is almost 5.35 on the Visual Analog Scale – VAS scale. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic may have had a negative impact on the physical and mental condition of medical workers. Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders - WRMSD ailments are common and are a serious, constantly growing problem.

Musculoskeletal disorder prevalence and its correlation with stress in medical students: A cross sectional survey.

The study aimed to evaluate musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) prevalence and its correlation with stress in medical students at Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) in Saudi Arabia. A total of 416 participants participated in this study by answering an online questionnaire. We included medical students from UQU of both genders, ranging from the first year to the sixth year. A questionnaire was used to capture sociodemographic data. The data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10) and Standardized Nordic questionnaire. Among 416 medical students surveyed, 219 (52.60%) were males. A significant proportion of participants, 294 (70.70%), reported experiencing pain during the last 12 months. Female students exhibited significantly higher scores of MSDs compared to their male counterparts. Students who reported working between 51-90 hours per week had a significantly higher MSD score than those who worked 0-50 hours or 91 or more hours. The findings of this study indicated that the most prevalent MSDs were low back pain (50.20%), followed by neck pain (31.70%), and female medical students exhibited significantly higher stress levels than male medical students. Musculoskeletal disorders represent a prevalent health issue among medical students, there is a significant association between factors such as being a female and body mass index. Additionally, psychological stress is a widespread concern among medical students, given the demanding nature of their lifestyle. Interestingly, our findings revealed that there exists a moderately positive relationship between musculoskeletal disorders and stress in this particular population.

Burnout syndrome and its correlation with musculoskeletal disorders among physiotherapists in Saudi: A cross-sectional study.

There is a significant impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) on individuals of all ages, professions, and fields from various countries worldwide, leading to a negative impact on quality of life and overall health outcomes. The study was conducted to investigate the association between Burnout syndrome (BS) and MSDs among physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Physiotherapists of either gender and with no known co-morbidities and who were not suffering from recent injuries and accidents were included in the study. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to determine the level of burnout. Musculoskeletal disorders were analyzed using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ). The chi-square test was used to observe the association between two categorical variables and a p-value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. A total of 133 participants were recruited and it was observed that 70 (53%) participants had low burnout levels (BoL). It was revealed that 65 (49%) had trouble in the neck and visited a physician clinic, 47 (35%) had trouble in the lower back during the last 12months, 60 (45%) had trouble in the upper back during the last 12months that prevented the normal activity and 13 (9.8%) participants had trouble in the shoulders during the last 7days. History of chronic disease, education, practice setting, and smoking status with Burnout level was statistically significant. Trouble in the upper back, elbow, wrist/hands, hips/thighs, ankle/feet, and neck were also found to be significant. The outcomes revealed that a few demographic factors such as education, practice setting, smoking status, and chronic disease history were significantly associated with BS. Furthermore, it was observed that MSD had a significant impact on BoL.

Prevalence of low back pain and disability among secondary school teacher in the eastern province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional analytical study.

Lower back pain is common worldwide and affects over 600,000 people annually, including teachers. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of low back pain and disability among secondary school teachers in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study included secondary school teachers in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. 34 schools were selected using a multistage stratified sampling approach. Teachers were allotted randomly and proportionally to each school. Data was collected by anonymous questionnaire having three elements: sociodemographic and health-related questions, the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. The anthropometric data was also included. Both unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed. A total of 601 teachers participated in the study with 62.56% reported low back pain. The overall mean age was 40.31 ± 8.13 years. The male-to-female ratio was similar. Back pain was significantly higher among females than males (73.36 and 51.52%, respectively). Additionally, back pain will significantly increase when stress levels and the number of classes increases. A positive correlation was found between age with low back pain (p = 0.001).There was minimal disability in 64.63% of the 376 teachers who reported low back pain, moderate disability in 29.79%, and severe disability in 4.79%, and only three (0.8%) were considered crippled. Females were more frequently seen in moderate and crippled categories, and perceived stress levels generally increased mean disability scores. Age and female gender were revealed to be significant predictors of low back pain by logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.07) and (adjusted OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.45-3.05), respectively. The number of classes per week was also a significant predictor. This study adds to the epidemiological evidence that reveals a high prevalence of low back pain and disability among teachers. Identified risk factors in this study may also reinforce the importance of setting different interventions and preventive measures to reduce lower back pain risk.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk assessment among production workers of pig slaughterhouse in the town municipality of Ang Thong, Thailand

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant health concern among workers, especially in the meat processing industry. Their impacts have been well documented and reported on numerous occasions. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and the ergonomic assessment of exposure to their risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a pig slaughterhouse in the town municipality of Ang Thong, Thailand. Data were collected from April to July 2021 from 108 participants who answered a questionnaire. The descriptive questionnaire for WMSDs was adapted from the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire in Thai and the Bureau of Occupational and Environmental Diseases, Department of Disease Control of Thailand. Ten individuals received an ergonomic assessment of their exposure to risk factors using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method. Results: According to the study, 94.4% of participants working in pig slaughterhouse production reported experiencing the prevalence of WMSDs in the last seven days. Additionally, 93.5% of workers reported experiencing the prevalence of these disorders within the past 12 months. It has been observed that 29.6% of participants experience higher pain levels in their hands, while 25.9% experience it in their wrists, respectively. Based on the results of an ergonomic risk assessment using the REBA method, the half-cutting operator position presents a moderate level of risk. Conclusion: The study revealed that most of the workers at the pig slaughterhouse had to use their hands and arms to apply repeated pressure consistently. The occurrence rates of WMSDs within the last seven days and 12 months were highest in the hands or wrists, followed by the upper arms and shoulders. Therefore, it is crucial to implement ergonomic measures to minimize the risk factors for WMSDs among production workers in pig slaughterhouses.

Musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life for Chilean teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic at the academic year-end.

Schoolteachers have reported multiple demands contributing to poor perceptions regarding their quality of life and high rates of musculoskeletal disorders. However, there are few studies about the association between musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life from the end of the academic period during the COVID-19 pandemic. Evaluate musculoskeletal disorders rates and their association with quality of life perceptions among teachers from the last academic period during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total sample of 161 Chilean schoolteachers was included in a cross-sectional study musculoskeletal disorders prevalence was evaluated using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, and quality of life was evaluated through the Short-Form 12 Health Survey Instrument. A logistic regression was applied to evaluate the association between musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life perceptions adjusted by gender, age, and contract type. 98% of teachers have suffered from some type of musculoskeletal disorders during the last 12 months, and 64% have had six or more painful regions. Women showed a higher musculoskeletal disorders rate than men. The group of teachers with the most musculoskeletal disorders (≥p50) saw significantly greater risk of low scores on the physical (OR: 2.16; p < 0.05) and mental components (OR: 4.86; p < 0.01) of quality of life, regardless of gender, age, and contract type. High musculoskeletal disorders rates suggest that preventive and informative actions must be taken regarding these disorders in order to protect teachers' mental and physical health, considering the effects of the school year and the COVID-19 health crisis.

Analysis and Identification of Work Posture to Complaints of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) with REBA Method (Case Study at CV. Sumber Sari, Jember Regency)

This study discusses the analysis of work posture on all activities of workers who produce coco fiber in CV. Sumber Sari is located in Lembengan Village, Jember Regency. The production processes that are currently operating are the jockey, drying, sieving, and pressing processes. Work activities are carried out repeatedly, causing complaints to workers. These complaints arise due to non-ergonomic posture causing pain in several parts of the body felt by workers. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of risk and the percentage of complaints experienced during the production process. The methods used are the Standard Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The results of the research from the SNQ questionnaire on the manufacture of coco fiber, the body segments of workers mostly experience complaints on the back, waist and thighs. Research using the REBA method has a very high level of risk in jockey, sieving, and pressing workers (A4 and A5).Keywords— musculoskeletal disorders, working posture, SNQ, REBA

Predictive factors of ergonomic behaviors based on social cognitive theory among women workers on assembly lines: application of Bayesian networks

BackgroundThis study focuses on identifying the key factors associated with ergonomic behaviors (ERBE) among women workers on assembly lines (WwAL) to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by repetitive motions and unfavorable body postures. To achieve this objective, this study employed Bayesian networks (BN) analysis based on social cognitive theory (SCT).MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the predictive factors of ERBE among 250 WwAL from six different industries located in Neyshabur, a city in northeastern Iran. The study used a two-stage cluster sampling method for participant selection and self-report questionnaires to collect data on demographic characteristics, variables associated with SCT, ERBE, and the standard Nordic questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using Netica and SPSS version 21, which involved statistical analyses such as independent t-tests, Pearson correlation, and ANOVA tests at a significance level of p < 0.05. BN analysis was conducted to identify the important factors that impact ERBE.ResultsThe majority of individuals reported experiencing chronic pain in their back, neck, and shoulder areas. Engaging in physical activity, consuming dairy products, and attaining a higher level of education were found to be significantly associated with the adoption of ERBE p < 0.05. Among the various SCT constructs, observational learning, intention, and social support demonstrated the highest levels of sensitivity towards ERBE, with scores of 4.08, 3.82, and 3.57, respectively. However, it is worth noting that all SCT constructs exhibited a certain degree of sensitivity towards ERBE.ConclusionsThe research findings demonstrate that all constructs within SCT are effective in identifying factors associated with ERBE among WwAL. The study also highlights the importance of considering education levels and variables related to healthy lifestyles when promoting ERBE in this specific population.

PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG NURSES WORKING AT A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN OMAN

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of concern for workplace safety for healthcare workers. The prevalence of nurses with MSDs is particularly high. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and explore the associated factors of MSDs among nurses working in a tertiary hospital in Oman. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational study was used to examine 125 nurses using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. Results: We sampled 125 nurses working in different units. We found that the main age group is between 31 and 40 years old (58.4%), mostly female (79.2%), majority are married (80.8%) and have children (76.8%). Nurses in this sample work at different departments, majority are working in the orthopedic unit (18.4%). The minimum years of experience was 1 year, and the maximum was 33 years. Upper back pain was the most reported complaint (7.2%). Out of the 125 nurses 87 had symptoms of MSDs at a prevalence of 0.696. Three factors were found to have a relationship with workplace-related MSDs: working in the same position for long periods of time ([Formula: see text] = 0.007), having lift-and-transfer-dependent patients ([Formula: see text] = 0.023), and being forced to work harder under the condition of staff shortage ([Formula: see text] = 0.062). None of the demographic and work-related characteristics were found to be related to MSDs. Conclusion: MSDs are very prevalent among nurses in Oman. The factors of developing MSDs are work related regardless of the demographic or workplace characteristics. Healthcare institutions shall implement preventive and rehabilitative measures to help nurses have better musculoskeletal health.

Risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dumper operators: A machine learning approach

AimsThis study aimed to determine the risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among dumper operators working in Indian iron ore mines. MethodsA total of 246 dumper truck operators meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were chosen for data collection. A self-report custom and the standard Nordic questionnaire were used for collecting data about risk factors and WRMSDs. The data were pre-processed and analyzed using machine learning (ML) algorithms (such as logistic regression ( LR), support vector machines (SVM), decision trees (DT), gradient boosting machine (GBM) and random forest (RF)). ResultsRF model was found to outperform the other algorithms with high accuracy (0.71), precision (0.75), recall (0.78), F1 score (0.76), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.82). The mean rank of the risk factors showed that age is the most critical parameter, followed by awkward posture, experience in mines, job demand, alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, work design, and marriage status. ConclusionOverall, the study provides valuable insights into the risk factors associated with WRMSDs among dumper operators and suggests that measures should be taken to address these risk factors to prevent WRMSDs in the dumper operator population.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dairy farmers in Malur Milk Co-operative society, Kolar District, Karnataka, India

Introduction: The burden of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) is high among dairy farmers, as they are involved in unacceptable working postures and movements. This study aims to assess the prevalence of WRMSDs and their associated factors among dairy farmers in Malur Milk Co-operative Society, Kolar District, Karnataka, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done from February 2022 to April 2022, among 150 dairy farmers aged 18 years and above. We collected socio-demographic, occupation, ergonomics and co-morbidities related details by administering a questionnaire. Assessment of musculoskeletal disorders was by Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and Mental health was assessed by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Results: The mean age was 40.96 13.49 years, and 66% of our study participants were males. The secondary occupation was agriculture(63%). Working hours per day was more than 8 hours in 19.3%. History of lifting heavy weights(78%), standing for long hours (56%) and sitting in squatting positions for long hours(66%) was present in this occupational group. The prevalence of WRMSDs was found to be 64.7%. The site of musculoskeletal disorders was found to be highest in the lower back (48.7%) and knees(45.3%). On multivariate analysis, belonging to the male gender [aOR = 0.33 (95%CI: 0.12-0.85)] and prolonged standing [aOR = 3.39 (95%CI: 1.46-7.89)] were the risk factors for WRMSDs. Conclusion: The prevalence of WRMSD is significantly high among dairy farmers in rural areas, affecting the lower back and knees predominantly. Education on ergonomics, routine physical activity, and accessibility to social security schemes will improve the health status of this community.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in agriculture: Ergonomics risk assessment and its prevention among Indian farmers.

Indian farmers have musculoskeletal disorders as agriculture is a physically demanding occupation. The main aim of this study is to identify ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among different groups of farmers. The other objective is to investigate how MSDs affect farmers' daily lives and interfere with their activities. Farmers were evaluated for the repetitiveness of work and MSDs using the standard Nordic questionnaire, ergonomic assessment tool (REBA), and ART tool. Low back portions were the most affected body parts, followed by the knees (OR = 0.352; 95% CI = 0.280-0.598), shoulder (OR = 0.657; 95% CI = 0.405-1.066), neck (OR = 0.510; 95% CI = 0.350-0.743), ankle or foot (OR = 0.815; 95% CI = 0.556-1.196), and upper back region (OR = 0.681; 95% CI = 0.463-1.002). The REBA method found that most of the postures in farming are very dangerous. The ART tool showed that most of the activities are repetitive. Working long hours (90%) and monotony at work (87.5%) are the main psychosocial factors, followed by pressure to finish within a given timeframe (71.4%) and injuries related to MSDs. Farmers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders in various body parts (lower back, knee, neck, shoulder, and upper back) due to squatting, stooping, and other constrained working postures during agricultural activities. rolonged working hours, repetitive movements, and MMH are ergonomic risk factors forFurthermore, p MSDs.

Prevalence and consequences of spinal pain among people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Denmark.

To describe 1-week and 1-year prevalence of spinal pain and its consequences in relation to leisure activity, work-life, and care-seeking in people with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). A cross-sectional survey including adults diagnosed with DM from two Danish secondary care centres. Using the Standardised Nordic Questionnaire, spinal pain prevalence (cervical, thoracic, lumbar) and its consequences were evaluated (proportions, 95% confidence intervals) and compared to the general population. Among 3767 people, 1-week and 1-year spinal pain prevalence were 11.6-32.4 and 18.5-49.6%, respectively, highest for lumbar pain (24.6-49.6%). The prevalence was similar between DM types for cervical and thoracic pain, but higher in type 2 for lumbar spine. Women had higher pain prevalence across spinal regions and DM types, while cervical and thoracic pain estimates were higher for age < 60 vs. ≥ 60. Within the past year, > 50% reported pain > 30 days, high proportions had reduced their activities (leisure time, 43.7-63.9%; work, 20.7-33.3%), 13.3-28.1% reported sick-leave > 30 days, and 44.3-48.5% had sought care due to spinal pain. Spinal pain is common in people with type 1 and 2 DM, resulting in considerable consequences for work/leisure activities, sick-leave, and healthcare utilisation as compared to the general population.

WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONGNURSESOF GOVERNMENTAL HOSPITAL IN AL-MEDINAH, SAUDI ARABIA:A CROSS-SECTIONALSTUDY

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) considered to be one of the most common public health issues these days. Studies have addressed the issue of increasing prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among different occupations. However, contributing factors to MSK pain have not been fully investigated among Nurses. Thus, this study aimed to approximate the prevalence and predictors of MSK pain among the nurses working in governmental hospitals in Medina, Saudi Arabia. Methods: cross-sectional study took place on nurses of King Salman Medical city (KSAMC). The Standardized Nordic questionnaires for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms was utilized in our study. Results were analyzed descriptively using a Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis to estimate the odd ratio of experiencing disabling musculoskeletal symptoms. Results:Nearly 55% of the subjects were between ages 31 and 40 and 85% of the sample comprised of females. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed being a female nursesseem to have high odds and significant association with Neck pain OR = 5.5 (2.18-13.76, p&lt;.001) Conclusion: Health care workers, particularly nurses, are at a heigh risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs), and therefore, it is imperative that measures are taken to manage this global issue. Occupational therapists can play an integral role in this regard.