Prevalence Of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders Research Articles

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and related factors among nurses: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to evaluate the musculoskeletal disorders caused by work and related factors in nurses. This cross-sectional study investigated and analyzed the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among nurses working in educational-therapeutic centers in Rasht, Iran, during 2018-2019. A two-part questionnaire was utilized in this study. The first part pertained to demographic characteristics, which the study participants completed. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from the height and weight measurements the researcher took. The second part of the instrument comprised the Nordic questionnaire. Data description and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 24. In this study, a total of 353 nurses participated. The results of this study indicate that a significant majority (88.1%) of nurses’ experience about the musculoskeletal disorders in various parts of their bodies. Key factors influencing these disorders' prevalence include age, gender, BMI, occupational factors, hospital, and work shift. Among the findings, 72.52% of nurses reported experiencing the musculoskeletal disorders in the past 12 months, while only 7.1% required hospitalization due to these issues. In sum, the high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses can be attributed to factors such as heavy workloads, insufficient nursing staff, inappropriate tools and equipment, an unsuitable work environment, and a lack of knowledge regarding ergonomic principles. To address these issues, it is recommended to implement educational interventions, enhance the work environment, eliminate organizational obstacles and deficiencies, and focus on factors that contribute to reducing the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Central Sterile Supply Technicians, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand

Objective: The study aimed to examine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among central sterile supply technicians (CSSTs) in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand, and investigate the risk factors associated with these disorders.Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among CSSTs regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Technicians were asked about the presence and severity of disorders throughout the whole body during the sterilization procedure. The survey was distributed to the CSSTs at the central sterilization supply departments (CSSDs) of 32 hospitals in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand.Results: The prevalence rate of WMSDs in various bodily regions was assessed among technicians at the time of questioning (88.3%), after one week (65.4%), and after one year (59.2%). Various body parts were reported to have developed Musculoskeletal problems, with the lower back being the most frequently reported (88.8%), followed by the upper back (84.9%), and the ankles/feet (38.5%). These MSDs were influenced by age over 30 years (odds ratio [OR] 3.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59-6.93), work schedule (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.02-4.96) and the handling of heavy-load equipment (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.47-10.37) or carts, which significantly increased the risk of developing such illnesses.Conclusion: Many CSSTs from the CSSDs reported WMSDs in various locations on their bodies. Lower back pain was the most common complaint.

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) and Quality of Life (QoL) among the construction workers in the United Arab Emirates.

Background The United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry has rapidly expanded, but construction work, by its nature, poses a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These disorders significantly impact quality of life (QoL) and productivity and lead to disability and absenteeism. Aims and Objectives The study aims to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among UAE construction workers using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and assess their QoL using the Short-Form (SF-36) survey. Additionally, it aims to explore factors associated with WMSDs and QoL among construction workers in the United Arab Emirates. Methods This study is a cross-sectional, survey-based design conducted from July 2023 to May 2024 in the United Arab Emirates. The study included male construction workers aged 18-50 with at least 1 year of experience. Participants were recruited using a combination of convenience and purposive sampling methods. The data were collected via paper-based forms using the SF-36 and NMQ questionnaires. The study instruments were chosen after reviewing relevant literature to ensure minimal measurement bias. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, tests for normality, and Pearson’s correlation test with a significance level of p <0.05. Results A total of 346 construction workers were accessed and the study found an 81.8% 12-month WMSD prevalence, most commonly affecting the lower back (44.8%), neck (45.1%), and shoulders (37.9%). Additionally, 70.5% reported pain-related limitations, and 63.6% experienced pain in the past week. SF-36 scores were lowest for role limitations due to physical health (30.33) and emotional problems (33.43), with an overall mean of 52.27 out of 100. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of WMSD in construction workers and moderate quality of life scores. These findings highlight the urgent need to prioritize construction worker health through targeted interventions.

Prevalence and Perceptions of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Hospital Nurses in Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi Pakistan; A Cross-Sectional Study

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a matter of worrisome for both staff and employers. The phrase “musculoskeletal disorders” refers to a group of ailments that injure the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and joints and are frequently accompanied by pain, discomfort, and incapacity. Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in nurses and to assess the perception of risk factors which are associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders in nurses. Methods: A cross-sectional research study was conducted at Civil Hospital and Dow University Hospital Karachi. The data were collected from a sample of 336 nurses using non-probability convenience sampling. Results: The result of this study showed that the lower back region was the most popular with 29.2% of the respondents experiencing pain, followed by neck and shoulder (21.2% each), upper back (16.6%), wrist (6.6%), knees (2.5%), thumb (1.1%), ankles (1.1%) and hips (0.5%). The musculoskeletal disorders affect both male and female similarly. Conclusions: It was concluded that hospital nurses are highly susceptible to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The lower back is the most commonly affected body part. Factors such as prolonged standing, awkward postures, and the same task over and over again as contributing factors to work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders, Stress and Quality of Life Among Security Guards

Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders, Stress and Quality of Life Among Security Guards

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Various Occupational Workers in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are one of the most common occupational diseases, affecting various sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, handicrafts, construction, and banking. These disorders, caused by overexertion and repetitive motion, lead to work absenteeism, productivity loss, and economic impacts. The aim of the study is to determine the magnitude of musculoskeletal disorders among different occupational workers in India. We identified studies reporting the prevalence of WMSDs using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire in different databases between 2005 and 2023 through searches on SCOPUS, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar. The required information was then extracted. A random effect model was used to pool estimates of prevalence with 95% CI. Publication bias was assessed by applying funnel plots. The 12-months prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) were reported across several occupational groups, the meta or the pooled prevalence was estimated as 0.76 (95% CI: 0.70 to 0.82) along with substantial variability in the prevalence estimates between different industries and studies. The meta-prevalence for low back pain (LBP) was estimated as 0.60 (95% CI: 0.54 to 0.66). The meta-prevalence for Neck Pain was estimated as 0.40 (95% CI: 0.34 to 0.47) while for Shoulder Pain, it was estimated as 0.36 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.42), respectively. The risk of Bias was statistically non-significant and overall publication bias remains low as per visual inspections from funnel plot. WMSDs are prevalent across various Indian industries in significant proportion, particularly in agriculture, healthcare, and mining, leading to significant productivity loss and economic impact. The variation in prevalence highlights the need for sector-specific interventions. Addressing WMSDs requires comprehensive ergonomic and policy measures. Effective strategies are essential to mitigate these disorders' widespread impact.

Synergizing ergonomic principles with lean philosophy model towards productivity improvement in the shoes manufacturing industry

PurposeThis study aims to address the gap in integrating ergonomic principles with lean principles in the shoe product manufacturing process. The objective is to develop a customized model that effectively combines and synergizes ergonomics and lean principles.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data was collected through on-site observations, interviews and assessment of whole-body discomfort to evaluate the implementation of lean and ergonomic principles in each section of the shoe production process. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical tools, content analysis and software such as Microsoft Excel.FindingsThe findings of the study indicate that the case company’s underperformance, achieving only 26.96% of its designed capacity and 50.19% of its planned capacity, is primarily attributed to the poor integration of ergonomic principles with the lean philosophy model. The high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the shoe production process significantly contributes to a loss of productivity due to increased absenteeism. The factory experiences a labour absenteeism rate of 5.59%, resulting in overtime and additional costs. To address these issues, the study proposes the adoption of 8S principles and an ergo-lean production system model. This model, conceptualized as a building construction structure, effectively eliminates waste in the shoe production process.Practical implicationsThe study’s findings will greatly enhance productivity in the shoe manufacturing sector by establishing a work environment that prioritizes employee needs and well-being. This will have significant practical implications for improving overall productivity in the industry.Originality/valueThis study stands out as it investigates the proactive integration of ergonomics and lean principles in the shoe manufacturing industry, an area that has not been previously explored. By bridging the gap between these two principles, the research contributes to the existing knowledge base.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Physical Therapists: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Physical therapists, because of their care work, are susceptible to work-related musculoskeletal disorders due to their caregiving duties. These disorders have a significant economic and social impact. Objectives: To analyze the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among physical therapists and their associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional design study was conducted among physical therapists who were working in the Community of Madrid. An online questionnaire was used and distributed through the professional association. This questionnaire included sociodemographic and occupational variables as well as the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, specifically designed for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms in an ergonomic or occupational health context. Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models. Results: 212 questionnaires were analyzed. 98.1% reported a musculoskeletal problem in the past 12 months. The most affected regions were the neck (85.4%), upper back (59.4%), lower back (73.1%), shoulder (53.8%), and wrist and hand (63.2%). Neck disorders were associated with women (AOR = 2.41; 95%CI = 1.20-4.82); shoulder disorders with women (AOR = 7.79; 95%CI = 1.02-56.64) and older age (AOR = 1.06; 95%CI = 1.01-1.11); lower back disorders with women (AOR = 3.86; 95%CI = 1.11-13.49), a four-year bachelor's degree (AOR = 3.56; 95%CI = 1.09-11.62), treating trauma patients (AOR = 0.13; 95%CI = 0.02-0.62), and using manual therapy (AOR = 0.34; 95%CI = 0.15-0.78). Conclusions: 98.1% of the physical therapists reported musculoskeletal symptoms in the past 12 months. Several variables were associated with musculoskeletal disorders: gender, level of education, age, and type of patient and treatment. Further research is needed to identify preventive measures that can reduce the high prevalence of musculoskeletal problems among physical therapists.

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 of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Hairdressers and Beauticians in Peshawar: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Background: This study examined the prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) among hairdressers and beauticians in Peshawar, specifically targeting the areas of Hayatabad, University Town, and Peshawar Saddar. Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among hairdressers and beauticians in Peshawar, focusing on associated risk factors and impacts on occupational health. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, surveying a total of 340 participants, including 179 males and 161 females. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of WRMSDs, with 73.8% of respondents reporting various musculoskeletal conditions. The most reported areas of pain were the ankles (62.1%), followed by the lower back (56.5%), hands/wrists (35.0%), and shoulders (34.4%). Other frequently affected areas included the neck, upper back, hips/thighs, knees, and elbows. Musculoskeletal symptoms had varying impacts on work performance, with 8.5% of respondents reporting no impact, 40.0% reporting a slight impact, 31.8% reporting a moderate impact, 13.2% reporting a high impact, and 6.5% reporting a severe impact. Conclusion: The study found a significant association between repetitive tasks involving awkward postures and work-related stress contributing to musculoskeletal symptoms. Among the 340 participants, 283 reported both work-related stress and repetitive awkward postures as contributors to musculoskeletal symptoms, while only 7 participants reported neither. These findings suggest that repetitive tasks involving awkward postures are significantly associated with stress-related musculoskeletal symptoms among hairdressers and beauticians.

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.

Investigating the relationship between physical, cognitive, and environmental factors of ergonomics with the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders: A case study in a car-parts manufacturing industry.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) is a multi-factorial disorder in most occupational setting and it has increased significantly in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between physical, cognitive, and environmental factors of ergonomics with the prevalence of WRMSDs in a car-parts manufacturing industry. This cross-sectional study was performed among 220 workers in a milling unit of a car parts manufacturing company in 2021-2022. The prevalence of WRMSDs was assessed using the Extended Version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Noise exposure was evaluated using dosimetry method. Mental and physical workload were evaluated by the NASA-TLX and key index methods (KIM-MHO and KIM-LHC), respectively. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. The subjects' mean age and work experience were 36.3±6.5 and 8.35±6.41 years, respectively. Eighty-five percent of the subjects reported WRMSDs in at least one area of the body. The results of mental workload assessment revealed a high workload mean range (73.23±14.89) in all of the subjects. Mean score of KIM-LHC and KIM-MHO were 738.18±336.42 and 201.86±36.41, respectively with odds ratio of 1.32 for KIM-LHC in creating the WRMSDs. There was a significant relationship between the noise exposure, mental and physical workload and the prevalence of WRMSDs (p-value < 0.05). The results of the present study revealed that environmental, physical and cognitive factors can simultaneously be effective in the prevalence of WRMSDs. Therefore, performing effective control measures requires comprehensive attention to physical, environmental, and cognitive ergonomics in the algorithm of ergonomics management in the workplace.

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.