Differences in ergonomic and workstation factors between computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain

Comparison of muscle activity from upper trapezius and wrist extensors between dominant and non-dominant upper limbs during computer-based tasks

BACKGROUND

Sustained low-level muscle activity occurring during computer-based tasks is associated with the development of WMSDs (work-related musculoskeletal disorders) and this biomechanical exposure may be different between limbs.

OBJECTIVE

To compare muscle activity from dominant and non-dominant upper trapezius (UT) and wrist extensors (WE) during computer-based tasks in real work settings.

METHODS

Forty-five workers were monitored during two hours while performing their usual administrative tasks. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was recorded from UT and WE muscles in both sides. Rest and general exposure variables were calculated.

RESULTS

The 50th percentile demonstrated little muscle activity demand, for both dominant and non-dominant UT and no difference between sides was observed. The dominant WE muscles had lower measures of rest and higher muscle activity when compared with the non-dominant side.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in sEMG between upper limbs were only found in WE muscles, probably due to the use of the mouse. The overall low-level muscle activity suggests a constant activation of the same motor units for the entire data-collection period, which can be considered harmful for musculoskeletal health.