1
|
Bezzina A, Austin E, Nguyen H, James C. Workplace Psychosocial Factors and Their Association With Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. Workplace Health Saf 2023; 71:578-588. [PMID: 37698343 PMCID: PMC10676046 DOI: 10.1177/21650799231193578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review examines literature regarding the relationship between workplace psychosocial factors and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of work disability, resulting in billions of dollars of financial losses. Evidence suggests that workplace psychosocial factors can lead to the development and progression of MSDs. A data search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) from August 2009 to May 2020 inclusive. Other eligibility criteria included studies published in English, conducted on adults within a workplace setting, conducted in developed economies, and were stability-control longitudinal observational studies. Studies were independently screened for eligibility, using COVIDENCE (software for managing and streamlining systematic reviews) and assessed for quality by multiple authors, using the JBI Evidence synthesis tool. From 6,812 studies, 47 articles were included in the final analysis. The most common MSDs investigated were lower back pain, neck and shoulder pain, and upper extremity symptoms and disorders. Included articles identified that psychosocial workplace factors of support, collaboration, job control, and job demands were statistically significantly associated with risk and progression of MSDs. Review of the articles included in this article supports the theory that MSDs have a multifactorial, complex etiology that includes psychosocial factors. Interventions to enhance psychosocial work environment provide opportunities to reduce the risk of MSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Bezzina
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle
- Centre for Resources Health and Safety, School of Public Health and Medicine, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle
| | - Emma Austin
- Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW Health
| | - Ha Nguyen
- Centre for Work Health and Safety, Department of Customer Service, NSW
| | - Carole James
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kwon S, de Castro AB, Herting JR, Lee SJ, Johnson K, Bao S. Job satisfaction and job security as moderators in the relationships among job demands, musculoskeletal symptoms, and work performance. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2023; 96:607-619. [PMID: 36692547 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-01955-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined whether job satisfaction and job security moderate the path from physical demands and job strain to impaired work performance via musculoskeletal symptoms in the upper extremities (MSUE). Moderation effects on five paths were examined: (1) from job strain to MSUE; (2) from job strain to work performance; (3) from physical demands to MSUE; (4) from physical demands to work performance; (5) from MSUE to work performance. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study of 669 full-time workers from 9 manufacturing and 3 healthcare facilities. Data were collected via health interviews, on-site physical exposure assessments, and computation of the Strain Index by ergonomists, and self-administered questionnaires on psychosocial factors. Structural equation modeling and zero-inflated negative binomial regression analysis were performed to examine the moderation effect on each path. RESULTS Job satisfaction moderated the relationship between MSUE and impaired work performance (B = - 0.09, 95% CI: - 0.15, - 0.04) and job security moderated the relationship between physical demands and MSUE (B = - 0.64, 95% CI: - 1.17, - 0.11). Interaction between job satisfaction and MSUE was significant on both the occurrence (OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87, 0.97) and the degrees of impaired work performance (mean ratio: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.97, 0.99), while the interaction between job security and physical demands was significant only on the degrees of MSUE (mean ratio: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89, 0.99). CONCLUSION Job satisfaction and job security can, respectively, mitigate the adverse impacts of working with MSUE and physical demands on work performance. Workplace interventions to improve workers' job satisfaction and job security can contribute to their musculoskeletal health and work performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suyoung Kwon
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - A B de Castro
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jerald R Herting
- Department of Sociology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Soo-Jeong Lee
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kurt Johnson
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stephen Bao
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee W, Yragui NL, Anderson NJ, Howard N, Lin JH, Bao S. The job demand-control-support model and work-related musculoskeletal complaints in daytime and nighttime janitors: The mediating effect of burnout. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 105:103836. [PMID: 35777183 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Janitors' jobs require repetitive work with low control (skill discretion, decision authority) and social support. Previous studies have found this constellation of work conditions leads to high stress levels. This study investigated the relationships among job demand-control-support, burnout, and musculoskeletal symptoms for commercial janitors in Washington State. Structural equation modeling was performed using data from 208 participants with analyses comparing models of daytime and nighttime janitors. Burnout fully mediated the relationship between job demands and musculoskeletal complaints among daytime janitors. Among nighttime janitors, burnout mediated between job demands, job control, and social support, and musculoskeletal complaints. The nighttime janitors' model was more fully supported compared to the daytime model. This study is one of a small number that examine and bring attention to the importance of janitors' burnout. Recommendations to improve the psychosocial work environment toward mitigating burnout and reducing musculoskeletal complaints are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wonil Lee
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Nanette L Yragui
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Naomi J Anderson
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Ninica Howard
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Jia-Hua Lin
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Stephen Bao
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
McKinnon CD, Sonne MW, Keir PJ. Assessment of Joint Angle and Reach Envelope Demands Using a Video-Based Physical Demands Description Tool. HUMAN FACTORS 2022; 64:568-578. [PMID: 32912047 DOI: 10.1177/0018720820951349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current methods for describing physical work demands often lack detail and format standardization, require technical training and expertise, and are time-consuming to complete. A video-based physical demands description (PDD) tool may improve time and accuracy concerns associated with current methods. METHODS Ten simulated occupational tasks were synchronously recorded using a motion capture system and digital video. The tasks included a variety of industrial tasks from lifting to drilling to overhead upper extremity tasks of different cycle times. The digital video was processed with a novel video-based assessment tool to produce 3D joint trajectories (PDAi), and joint angle and reach envelope measures were calculated and compared between both data sources. RESULTS Root mean squared error between video-based and motion capture posture estimated ranged from 89.0 mm to 118.6 mm for hand height and reach distance measures, and from 13.5° to 21.6° for trunk, shoulder, and elbow angle metrics. Continuous data were reduced to time-weighted bins, and video-based posture estimates showed 75% overall agreement and quadratic-weight Cohen's kappa scores ranging from 0.29 to 1.0 compared to motion capture data across all posture metrics. CONCLUSION AND APPLICATION The substantial level of agreement between time-weighted bins for video-based and motion capture measures suggest that video-based job task assessment may be a viable approach to improve accuracy and standardization of field physical demands descriptions and minimize error in joint posture and reach envelope estimates compared to traditional pen-and-paper methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin D McKinnon
- 62703 McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- 3710 MyAbilities Technologies Inc., Burlington, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kwon S, Lee SJ, de Castro AB, Herting JR, Bao S, Johnson K. Identifying an Optimal Cut-Off Point for Musculoskeletal Pain in the Upper Extremities to Prevent Lowered Work Performance. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:985-991. [PMID: 34739442 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study identified when musculoskeletal pain (MSP) in the upper extremities indicates lowered work performance to gauge when secondary prevention of musculoskeletal disorders is needed. METHODS Seven hundred thirty-three subjects from 12 manufacturing or healthcare facilities in Washington state participated. Work performance was measured by the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand work module (DASH-Work). Each DASH-Work score was compared to the mean among U.S. workers to determine if workers had lowered work performance. ROC curve analysis was conducted to find the cut-off in a composite MSP index (summing MSP intensities in shoulders, elbows/forearms, and hands/wrists; range 0 to 24) to detect lowered work performance. RESULTS The MSP index score of 2 achieved the best balance between sensitivity (0.79) and specificity (0.69) in detecting lowered work performance. CONCLUSIONS To prevent reduced work performance, moderate or multisite pain may require proper management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suyoung Kwon
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (Dr Kwon, Dr de Castro, Dr Herting, and Dr Johnson); University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California (Dr Lee); Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, Washington (Dr Bao)
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Work above shoulder level and shoulder complaints: a systematic review. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 93:925-954. [PMID: 32572582 PMCID: PMC7519900 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association and the exposure-response relationship between work above shoulder height and shoulder pain or disorders. METHODS A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase, and Health and Safety Science Abstracts. Included were articles with prospective cohort, case-control, cross-sectional, or intervention study designs. Quality assessment was based on an evaluation scheme adjusted to study design and normalized to 100%. The cut-off for sufficient quality to include articles was above 40% and cut-off for high-quality articles was above 50% of maximal score. The level of strength of evidence for an association between exposure and effect was assessed according to the GRADE guidelines. RESULTS Thirty-four articles were included. Articles that document large effects (higher risk estimates; OR ≥ 2) have higher quality score, include analyses of severe arm elevation, more often use clinical outcome, and report an exposure-response relationship compared to studies reporting lower risk estimates. The studies that reported large effects were all significant. An exposure-response relationship was found in many high-quality studies when relating exposure intensity of arm elevation (level of arm elevation, amplitude) as well as duration of arm elevation, especially > 90°. CONCLUSION We conclude on a limited evidence for an association between arm elevation at work and shoulder disorders. Severe arm elevation with elbows above shoulder level (i.e., > 90°) shows a moderate evidence for an association with shoulder disorders.
Collapse
|
7
|
Amiri S, Behnezhad S. Is job strain a risk factor for musculoskeletal pain? A systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 longitudinal studies. Public Health 2020; 181:158-167. [PMID: 32059156 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2019.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
8
|
Are Psychosocial Factors Associated With Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Patients With Rotator Cuff Tears? A Systematic Review. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2018; 476:810-829. [PMID: 29481342 PMCID: PMC6260082 DOI: 10.1007/s11999.0000000000000087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychosocial factors are key determinants of health and can influence patient-reported outcomes after rotator cuff tears. However, to our knowledge, a systematic review of published studies has not been conducted to determine the degree of consistency and strength of the relationship between psychosocial factors and patient-reported outcomes in this patient population. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES (1) Are psychosocial factors associated with patient-reported measures at initial clinical presentation in patients with rotator cuff tears? (2) Are psychosocial factors associated with patient-reported outcomes after treatment in patients with rotator cuff tears? METHODS A systematic review of cross-sectional and prospective observational studies was performed in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science from each database's inception to June 2016. We included studies examining associations between psychosocial factors and patient-reported measures in patients with rotator cuff tears. We excluded studies not reporting on this relationship, involving patients with nonspecific shoulder pain, and written in a language other than English. Two independent reviewers performed the search, extracted information, and assessed methodological quality. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Items for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. The primary outcomes for the review were associations between each psychosocial factor and patient-reported measures of function or disability, pain, or quality of life. Associations were interpreted based on significance, strength, and direction of the relationship. A total of 10 studies (five cross-sectional and five prospective) in 1410 patients (age range, 46-62 years, 60% [571 of 958] men) were included in the review. Pooling of results for meta-analyses was not possible as a result of study heterogeneity. RESULTS Weak to moderate cross-sectional associations were found for emotional or mental health with function or disability and pain in multiple studies. Lower emotional or mental health function was associated with greater pain or disability or lower physical function at initial evaluation. Only one psychosocial factor (patient expectation) was weak to moderately associated with patient-reported outcomes after treatment in more than one study. In the two studies that examined expectations, the higher the expectation of benefit, the greater the perceived benefit after surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS At the initial evaluation of patients with rotator cuff tear, there was an association between self-reported function and pain and emotional or mental health. However, these factors were not associated with patient-reported outcomes after intervention. This finding could be attributed to the lack of large prospective studies in this area or complex phenotypes within this patient population. Preoperative patient expectation is an important predictor of patient-reported outcomes in patients after rotator cuff surgery and may be a modifiable target for enhancing recovery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, therapeutic study.
Collapse
|
9
|
Ajslev JZN, Persson R, Andersen LL. Contradictory individualized self-blaming: a cross-sectional study of associations between expectations to managers, coworkers, one-self and risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among construction workers. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:13. [PMID: 28068961 PMCID: PMC5223457 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-016-1368-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Within work sociology, several studies have addressed construction workers’ practices of masculinity, class, economy, safety risks and production. However, few studies have investigated room for agency in relation to bodily pain or musculoskeletal disorders and even fewer have made a quantitative approach. Accordingly, by means of a questionnaire, we examined the association between construction workers’ room for agency and physical exertion, bodily and mental fatigue, and lower back pain. Methods A total of 481 Danish construction workers who responded to a multifaceted questionnaire were included. Drawing on previous studies and a Foucauldian inspired concept of agency, agency was quantified through specially crafted questions and examined in relation to established measures on physical exertion, physical and mental fatigue and pain in the lower back. Associations were tested using analyses of variance (general linear models) and controlled for age, gender, job group, lifestyle and depression. Results When asked about options for agency reducing the burden of work, few workers believed themselves to be prime agents of such practices. When asking about their view on performing alternative agency implying caring for the body, 39–49% expected negative reactions from management, and 20–33% expected negative reactions from colleagues. In contrast, only 13–18% of the participants stated that they would give a negative reception to such alternative practices. Using the expected reception outcomes (positive, neutral, negative) to alternative practices as predictors, the statistical regression analyses showed that negative expectations to management were associated with higher levels of physical exertion 0.62 (95% CI = 0.14–1.09) (scale 0-11), bodily fatigue 0.63 (95% CI = 0.22–1.04), mental fatigue 0.60 (95% CI = 0.07–1.12), and low back pain 0.79 (95% CI = 0.13–1.46) (scales 0-10). Conclusion In our study, construction workers answered questions about work and MSD. The answers indicated a contradiction between perceived responsibility and room for agency. Based on the study, a number of target areas could fruitfully be addressed in aiming to reduce MSD among construction workers. To change workers’ expectances to the reception of lowering work pace if needed to take care of the body, their expectances to the reception of sickness absence as a result of pain, of discussing physical exertion in work and of demanding appropriate technical assistive devices are such examples. Our results emphasize that management plays an important role in this.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roger Persson
- Department of Psychology, Lund University, SE-22100, Lund, Sweden.,Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Louis Andersen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle, 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Health Science and Technology, Physical Activity and Human Performance group, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hesselman Borg J, Westerståhl M, Lundell S, Madison G, Aasa U. Longitudinal study exploring factors associated with neck/shoulder pain at 52 years of age. J Pain Res 2016; 9:303-10. [PMID: 27307762 PMCID: PMC4889214 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s93845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the ability of work-related measurements, body composition, physical activity, and fitness levels to predict neck/shoulder pain (upper body pain, UBP) at the age of 52 years. Another aim was to investigate the cross-sectional relationships between UBP, work-related factors, and individual factors at the age of 52 years. METHODS We followed a randomly selected cohort of 429 adolescents that was recruited in 1974 (baseline), when they were 16 years old. The participants completed physical fitness tests, questions about sociodemographic and lifestyle factors at 16, 34, and 52 years of age, and questions about work-related factors and pain in the follow-ups. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations between UBP and the other variables. RESULTS Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that high body mass index and the work-related factors, low control, and low social support at the age of 34 years were related to UBP at the age of 52 years. For social support, there was an interaction between men and women where the relationship between low social support and the experience of pain was more evident for women. Among women, body mass index and social support remained significantly related in the multivariate analyses. For men, social support remained significantly related. Cross-sectional relationships at the age of 52 differed from the longitudinal in the sense that measures of joint flexibility and work posture were also significantly associated with UBP. CONCLUSION The fact that the cross-sectional differed from the longitudinal relationships strengthens the importance of performing longitudinal studies when studying factors that might influence the initiation of pain. UBP preventative measures might need to include both lifestyle (such as dietary habits and physical activity to ensure that the individuals are not becoming overweight) and work-related factors such as social support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Westerståhl
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Lundell
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Guy Madison
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Aasa
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bao SS, Kapellusch JM, Merryweather AS, Thiese MS, Garg A, Hegmann KT, Silverstein BA. Relationships between job organisational factors, biomechanical and psychosocial exposures. ERGONOMICS 2015; 59:179-194. [PMID: 26102483 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2015.1065347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The relationships between work organisational, biomechanical and psychosocial factors were studied using cross-sectional data from a pooled dataset of 1834 participants. The work organisational factors included: job rotation, overtime work, having second jobs and work pace. Task and job level biomechanical variables were obtained through sub-task data collected in the field or analysed in the laboratory. Psychosocial variables were collected based on responses to 10 questions. The results showed that job rotations had significant effects on all biomechanical and most psychosocial measures. Those with job rotations generally had higher job biomechanical stressors, and lower job satisfaction. Overtime work was associated with higher job biomechanical stressors, and possibly self-reported physical exhaustion. Those having second jobs reported getting along with co-workers well. Work pace had significant influences on all biomechanical stressors, but its impact on job biomechanical stressors and psychosocial effects are complicated. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY The findings are based on a large number of subjects collected by three research teams in diverse US workplaces. Job rotation practices used in many workplaces may not be effective in reducing job biomechanical stressors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Overtime work is also associated with higher biomechanical stressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen S Bao
- a Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries , Olympia , USA
| | - Jay M Kapellusch
- b Department of Occupational Science & Technology , University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee , Milwaukee , USA
| | - Andrew S Merryweather
- c Department of Mechanical Engineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Matthew S Thiese
- d Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health (RMCOEH) , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Arun Garg
- b Department of Occupational Science & Technology , University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee , Milwaukee , USA
| | - Kurt T Hegmann
- d Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health (RMCOEH) , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Barbara A Silverstein
- a Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries , Olympia , USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fethke NB, Merlino LA, Gerr F, Schall MC, Branch CA. Musculoskeletal pain among Midwest farmers and associations with agricultural activities. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:319-30. [PMID: 25345841 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although agricultural workers experience a high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, associations between specific agricultural activities and musculoskeletal pain are not well characterized. METHODS Among 518 regional farmers, responses to a mailed questionnaire were used to estimate (i) the 2-week prevalence of low back, neck/shoulder, and elbow/wrist/hand pain, and (ii) associations between the average hours per week performing common agricultural activities and musculoskeletal pain. RESULTS The low back was the most common location of musculoskeletal pain (33.2%), followed by the neck/shoulder (30.8%) and elbow/wrist/hand (21.6%). Statistically significant adjusted associations were observed between performing equipment repair and maintenance and low back pain; milking animals and neck/shoulder pain; and manual material handling and elbow/wrist/hand pain, among others. CONCLUSIONS The observed prevalence estimates are consistent with previous literature, and the associations between agricultural activities and musculoskeletal pain provide an initial basis for targeted intervention research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B. Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health; University of Iowa; Iowa City Iowa
| | - Linda A. Merlino
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health; University of Iowa; Iowa City Iowa
| | - Fredric Gerr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health; University of Iowa; Iowa City Iowa
| | - Mark C. Schall
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering; University of Iowa; Iowa City Iowa
| | - Cassidy A. Branch
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health; University of Iowa; Iowa City Iowa
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Arcury TA, Chen H, Mora DC, Walker FO, Cartwright MS, Quandt SA. The effects of work organization on the health of immigrant manual workers: A longitudinal analysis. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2014; 71:66-73. [PMID: 25158121 PMCID: PMC9094090 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2014.955164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This analysis uses a longitudinal design to examine the associations of work organization and health outcomes among Latino manual workers. Participants included 247 Latino workers who completed baseline and 1-year follow-up interviews and clinical examinations. Health outcome measures were epicondylitis, rotator cuff syndrome, back pain, and depressive symptoms. Independent measures were measures of job demand, job control, and job support. Workers commonly experienced rotator cuff syndrome (6.5%), back pain (8.9%), and depressive symptoms (11.2%); fewer experienced epicondylitis (2.4%). Psychological demand was associated with rotator cuff syndrome; awkward position and decision latitude were associated with back pain. Decreased skill variety but increased decision latitude was associated with elevated depressive symptoms. Work context factors are important for health outcomes among vulnerable workers. Further research is needed to expand upon this work, particularly cultural perspectives on job support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Arcury
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dana C. Mora
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francis O. Walker
- Department of Neurology, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael S. Cartwright
- Department of Neurology, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara A. Quandt
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bodin J, Ha C, Petit A, Descatha A, Thomas T, Goldberg M, Leclerc A, Roquelaure Y. Natural course of rotator cuff syndrome in a French working population. Am J Ind Med 2014; 57:683-94. [PMID: 24585691 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to assess the persistence of rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) in workers and to study associations with personal and work-related factors, job change, exposure change and treatment. METHODS At baseline, 274 workers suffered from RCS, of whom 150 were followed up. Three groups were constituted: (1) a RCS recovery group, (2) a shoulder pain without RCS group, and (3) a RCS without recovery group. We studied the differences between groups (1) and (3) because of the low number of workers in group (2). RESULTS Recovery occurred in 61.5% of men and 51.4% of women. Factors related to work were associated with persistence of RCS in men whereas upper limb pain and absence of job rotation were associated with persistence of RCS in women. CONCLUSION This descriptive study showed that a high percentage of workers recovered and several personal and work-related factors were associated with persistent RCS. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bodin
- LUNAM Université; Université d'Angers; Laboratoire d'ergonomie et d'épidémiologie en santé au travail (LEEST); Angers France
| | - Catherine Ha
- Département santé travail; Institut de veille sanitaire; Saint-Maurice France
| | - Audrey Petit
- LUNAM Université; Université d'Angers; Laboratoire d'ergonomie et d'épidémiologie en santé au travail (LEEST); Angers France
- CHU Angers; Angers France
| | - Alexis Descatha
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin; UMRS 1018; Population-Based Epidemiological Cohorts' Research Platform; Villejuif France
| | - Thierry Thomas
- CHU Saint-Étienne; Service de Rhumatologie; Saint-Étienne France
| | - Marcel Goldberg
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin; UMRS 1018; Population-Based Epidemiological Cohorts' Research Platform; Villejuif France
| | - Annette Leclerc
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin; UMRS 1018; Population-Based Epidemiological Cohorts' Research Platform; Villejuif France
| | - Yves Roquelaure
- LUNAM Université; Université d'Angers; Laboratoire d'ergonomie et d'épidémiologie en santé au travail (LEEST); Angers France
- CHU Angers; Angers France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gerr F, Fethke NB, Anton D, Merlino L, Rosecrance J, Marcus M, Jones MP. A prospective study of musculoskeletal outcomes among manufacturing workers: II. Effects of psychosocial stress and work organization factors. HUMAN FACTORS 2014; 56:178-90. [PMID: 24669552 DOI: 10.1177/0018720813487201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to characterize associations between psychosocial and work organizational risk factors and upper-extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders. BACKGROUND Methodological limitations of previous studies of psychosocial and work organizational risk factors and musculoskeletal outcomes have produced inconsistent associations. METHOD In this prospective epidemiologic study of 386 workers, questionnaires to assess decision latitude ("control") and psychological job demands ("demand") were administered to study participants and were used to classify them into job strain "quadrants". Measures of job stress and job change were collected during each week of follow-up. Incident hand/arm and neck/shoulder symptoms and disorders were ascertained weekly. Associations between exposure measures and musculoskeletal outcomes were estimated with proportional hazard methods. RESULTS When compared to the low-demand/high-control job strain referent category, large increases in risk of hand/arm disorders were observed for both high-demand/high-control (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.23, 16.4]) and high-demand/low-control job strain categories (HR = 5.18,95% CI = [1.39, 19.4]). Similar associations were observed for hand/arm symptoms. A strong association was also observed between the low-demand/low-control job strain category and neck/shoulder disorders (HR = 6.46, 95% CI = [1.46, 28.6]). Statistically significant associations were also observed between weekly stress level and weekly job change and several musculoskeletal outcomes. CONCLUSION Associations between psychosocial risk factors and work organizational factors and musculoskeletal outcomes were large and in the hypothesized direction. APPLICATION Prevention of occupational musculoskeletal disorders may require attention to psychosocial and work organizational factors in addition to physical factors. Methods to control adverse effects of psychosocial and work organizational risk factors should be explored.
Collapse
|
16
|
Gerr F, Fethke NB, Merlino L, Anton D, Rosecrance J, Jones MP, Marcus M, Meyers AR. A prospective study of musculoskeletal outcomes among manufacturing workers: I. Effects of physical risk factors. HUMAN FACTORS 2014; 56:112-130. [PMID: 24669547 DOI: 10.1177/0018720813491114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better characterize associations between physical risk factors and upper-extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders, a prospective epidemiologic study of 386 manufacturing workers was performed. BACKGROUND Methodological limitations of previous studies have resulted in inconsistent associations. METHOD An individual, task-based exposure assessment strategy was used to assess upper-extremity exertion intensity, repetition, and time-in-posture categories. Participants recorded time spent performing daily work tasks on a preprinted log, which was then used to calculate time-weighted-average exposures across each week of follow-up. In addition, a weekly Strain Index (SI) risk category was assigned to each participant. Incident musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders were assessed weekly. Proportional hazards analyses were used to examine associations between exposure measures and incident hand/arm and neck/shoulder symptoms and disorders. RESULTS Incident symptoms and disorders were common (incident hand/arm symptoms = 58/100 person-years (PY), incident hand/arm disorders = 19/100 PY, incident neck/shoulder symptoms = 54/100 PY, incident neck/shoulder disorders = 14/100 PY). Few associations between separate estimates of physical exposure and hand/arm and neck/shoulder outcomes were observed. However, associations were observed between dichotomized SI risk category and incident hand/arm symptoms (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.99, 3.04]) and disorders (HR = 1.93,95% CI = [0.85,4.40]). CONCLUSION Evidence of associations between physical risk factors and musculoskeletal outcome was strongest when exposure was estimated with the SI, in comparison to other metrics of exposure. APPLICATION The results of this study provide evidence that physical exposures in the workplace contribute to musculoskeletal disorder incidence. Musculoskeletal disorder prevention efforts should include mitigation of these occupational risk factors.
Collapse
|
17
|
Kraatz S, Lang J, Kraus T, Münster E, Ochsmann E. The incremental effect of psychosocial workplace factors on the development of neck and shoulder disorders: a systematic review of longitudinal studies. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2013; 86:375-95. [PMID: 23549669 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-013-0848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To systematically analyse evidence on the incremental effect of work-related psychosocial risk factors on the development of neck and shoulder disorders, as reported in longitudinal studies. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in three data bases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO) until May 2009. The quality assessment leading to a methodological quality score of the included studies was conducted by two independent reviewers using a standardised checklist. Criteria for the evaluation of evidence were established. Heterogeneity analyses were conducted. RESULTS Altogether 18 prospective longitudinal studies were included in the analysis. Potential psychosocial risk factors were mainly based on the job demand control (support) model by Karasek (1998). Study results were too heterogeneous to deduce pooled risk estimates. But the weight of evidence was strong for an incremental effect of job demands, job control, social support, and job strain, on the development of neck and/or shoulder disorders. CONCLUSION While we found evidence for an incremental effect of different psychosocial work factors (in addition to the effect of physical job factors), these results have to be interpreted carefully in order to support the notion that psychological factors can have an independent causal influence on the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Nevertheless, our findings are important for the development of preventive strategies, as they stress the need for preventive approaches that tackle both physical and psychosocial factors. Future research is warranted to consolidate and strengthen the results of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Kraatz
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Herin F, Vézina M, Thaon I, Soulat JM, Paris C. Predictors of chronic shoulder pain after 5 years in a working population. Pain 2012; 153:2253-2259. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2012.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
19
|
Lang J, Ochsmann E, Kraus T, Lang JWB. Psychosocial work stressors as antecedents of musculoskeletal problems: a systematic review and meta-analysis of stability-adjusted longitudinal studies. Soc Sci Med 2012; 75:1163-74. [PMID: 22682663 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2011] [Revised: 03/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although the relationship between psychosocial workplace conditions and musculoskeletal problems has been extensively studied, the causal impact of psychosocial workplace factors in the development of musculoskeletal problems remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to conduct a systematic review of baseline-adjusted prospective longitudinal studies estimating the lagged effect of psychosocial risk factors on musculoskeletal problems in industrialized work settings. A literature review was conducted by searching the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO databases dated until August 2009. The authors classified studies into categories of psychological work stressors and musculoskeletal problems. Available effect sizes were converted to odds ratios (OR). ORs were then pooled for each stressor-problem relationship using a random-effects model. Additionally, the possibility of publication bias was assessed with the Duval and Tweedie nonparametric "trim and fill" procedure. In total, 50 primary studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. Within these studies at least five effect sizes were available for 23 of the 45 possible psychosocial work stress-musculoskeletal problems relationships, leaving 9 psychosocial variables and four musculoskeletal problem areas for analyses. Of these 23 relationships, pooled OR estimates were positive and significant ranging from 1.15 to 1.66 with the largest pooled OR estimating the relationship between highly monotonous work and lower back pain. The lagged effect of low social support on lower limb problems was the only effect size for which the statistical test for bias was significant. Most psychosocial stressors had small but significant lagged effects on the development of musculoskeletal problems. Thus, organizational interventions to minimize these stressors may be promising in reducing one risk factor for the development of employee musculoskeletal problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Lang
- Institute for Occupational Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mayer J, Kraus T, Ochsmann E. Longitudinal evidence for the association between work-related physical exposures and neck and/or shoulder complaints: a systematic review. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2011; 85:587-603. [PMID: 22038085 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-011-0701-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most existing reviews focus on evidence for the association between neck and/or shoulder complaints and physical exposures at the workplace gathered from cross-sectional studies. In comparison, this review summarizes existing evidence from longitudinal studies only. METHODS A systematic literature research was conducted in Medline and EMBASE (1975-2009), and all studies were scanned by at least two researchers according to strict inclusion criteria. Levels of evidence were assigned according to the number of studies reporting similar findings, and according to the methodological quality of the included studies. RESULTS Altogether 21 longitudinal studies (19 high-quality studies) met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. In comparison with former reviews, we found strong evidence for an association between shoulder complaints and manual material handling (MMH) (range between Odds Ratio (OR) 1.4 and 4.9), vibration (range between OR 1.6 and OR 2.5), trunk flexion or rotation (range between OR 1.8 and OR 5.1), and working with hands above shoulder level (range between OR 1.1 and OR 1.8). Apart from that, the included studies confirmed existing knowledge on the association between physical exposures at the workplace and neck and/or shoulder complaints. CONCLUSIONS This analysis of longitudinal studies allowed for new evidence with regard to four cause-effect chains between physical exposures at work and the development of shoulder, neck and neck/shoulder complaints. As outcome variables varied greatly among the included studies, harmonization in studies on musculoskeletal research is desirable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Mayer
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Herin F, Paris C, Levant A, Vignaud MC, Sobaszek A, Soulat JM. Links between nurses’ organisational work environment and upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms: Independently of effort–reward imbalance! The ORSOSA study. Pain 2011; 152:2006-2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2011.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 04/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
22
|
Asfaw AG, Bushnell PT, Ray TK. Relationship of work injury severity to family member hospitalization. Am J Ind Med 2010; 53:506-13. [PMID: 20187008 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Working while under stress due to a family health event may result in injuries of greater severity. Work leave might mitigate such consequences. DATA AND METHODS Workers' compensation data for 33,817 injured workers and inpatient medical data for 76,077 members of their families were extracted from the 2002-2005 Thomson Reuters Medstat MarketScan Health and Productivity Management (HPM) and Commercial Claims and Encounter (CCE) datasets. Using a probit model, the impact of family hospitalization on the probability that a subsequent injury would be severe (above average indemnity costs) was estimated, adjusting for age, sex, hourly versus salaried status, industry sector, state, and family size. RESULTS Family hospitalization within 15 days before injury increased the likelihood that the injury would be severe (from 12.5% to 21.5%) and was associated with 40% higher indemnity costs and 50% higher medical costs. Hospitalizations over 30 days before injury had no impact. CONCLUSION The observed higher severity of work injuries following family hospitalizations suggests additional analyses may find higher injury rates as well, and that timely family leaves might help prevent severe workplace injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abay G Asfaw
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Office of the Director, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|