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Hussain M, Kong YK, Park SS, Shim HH, Park J. Exoskeleton Usability Questionnaire: a preliminary evaluation questionnaire for the lower limb industrial exoskeletons. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:1198-1207. [PMID: 38111360 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2289856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Exoskeleton robots are a promising solution to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in different work environments, but a specific usability scale for evaluating them is lacking. This study aimed to develop and verify a preliminary Exoskeleton Usability Questionnaire (EUQ) for the lower limb exoskeletons by creating a draft survey questionnaire from existing questions in prior studies. An experiment was conducted with 20 participants who performed a specific task while wearing three lower limb robots and provided subjective feedback using the developed questionnaire. Data were analysed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), resulting in a usability evaluation questionnaire for exoskeleton robots clustered into four main factors: mobility, adjustability, handling and safety. This study's findings are expected to be useful in evaluating the usability of the lower limb exoskeletons in both general production sites and agricultural work, which can aid in reducing the prevalence of lower limb MSDs.Practitioner Summary: This study developed a preliminary subjective usability evaluation questionnaire for exoskeleton robots. The questionnaire is clustered into four main factors: mobility, adjustability, handling and safety. These findings provide a valuable tool for assessing exoskeleton usability, potentially reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in various work environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hussain
- Department of Computer Science, University of York, York, UK
- Department of Industrial and Management Engineering, Incheon National University (INU), Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Ku Kong
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Soo Park
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Ho Shim
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyun Park
- Department of Industrial and Management Engineering, Incheon National University (INU), Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Lee HJ, Oh JH, Yoo JR, Ko SY, Kang JH, Lee SK, Jeong W, Seong GM, Kang CH, Lim C, Son IS, Yang HJ, Oh MS, Song SW. Prevalence of shoulder pain and its correlates in Jeju agricultural population: A retrospective cross-sectional study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37043. [PMID: 38394526 PMCID: PMC11309677 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of shoulder pain and analyze its association with socio-demographic factors, agricultural work-related conditions, and biomechanical factors among farmers on Jeju Island. We utilized initial survey data from the Safety for Agricultural Injury of Farmers' cohort study involving adult farmers on Jeju Island. The presence and characteristics of shoulder pain, socio-demographics, agricultural work-related conditions, and biomechanical factors were assessed using semi-structured questionnaires. A total of 1206 participants were analyzed for prevalence and associated risk factors using frequency and multivariate logistic regression analyses. The overall prevalence of shoulder pain was 17%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for significant socio-demographic and agricultural work-related condition variables, revealed that stress level, type of farming, and experiencing an agricultural injury within the preceding year were significantly associated with shoulder pain (stress level: "occasional," adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.581; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.079-2.318; "frequent," aOR, 1.964; 95% CI, 1.205-3.200; and "extreme," aOR, 2.999; 95% CI, 1.480-6.074 vs "rarely"; type of farming: "orchard," aOR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.597-1.124; "livestock," aOR, 0.225; 95% CI, 0.079-0.641 vs "field"; and experienced an agricultural injury within the past year: "yes," aOR, 2.078; 95% CI, 1.269-3.405). In addition, 3 biomechanical factors significantly contributed to shoulder pain: activities requiring significant power such as shoveling, pickaxing, and hammering; repetitive use of a particular body part; and constant elevation of the arm above the head. The findings highlight the importance of postural education, injury prevention, and psychological support in managing shoulder pain among farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Oh
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Rae Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Young Ko
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Ho Kang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Kgun Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooseong Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gil Myeong Seong
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Hoo Kang
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaemoon Lim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - In Seok Son
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-su Oh
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Wook Song
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Center for Farmers’ Safety and Health, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Republic of Korea
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Rodarte P, Garavito J, Medina Pérez G, Farias M, Hernandez VH. Strategies to Increase the Spanish-Speaking Workforce in Orthopaedic Surgery within the United States. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2024; 106:258-261. [PMID: 37669501 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.23.00631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Language-concordant care improves patient satisfaction. Given the increase in Spanish-speaking persons requiring orthopaedic care in the United States, it is essential to increase the Spanish-speaking workforce in orthopaedic surgery. We have proposed strategies to improve the proportion of Spanish-speaking orthopaedic surgeons in the U.S. through early exposure to orthopaedic surgery, by creating collaborative advancement and mentorship opportunities, by endorsing Spanish-language immersion opportunities, and by increasing workforce diversity awareness. Furthermore, we have suggested a strategy to better equip non-Spanish-speaking orthopaedic surgeons while caring for Spanish-speaking patients. Together, the suggested strategies offer a variety of approaches that can have a direct, tangible impact on optimizing orthopaedic care while enhancing patient-physician communication in the Spanish language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Rodarte
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Jorge Garavito
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Michael Farias
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Victor H Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami/Jackson Health Systems, Miami, Florida
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Freeman B, Grocke-Dewey MU, Chichester L, Breeding K, Stallones L, Minter M. "Death by a Thousand Cuts": Agriculture Producer Resiliency in the Western United States. J Agromedicine 2024; 29:66-79. [PMID: 37978901 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2023.2280075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Agricultural producers face a wide array of stress triggers, shocks, and long-term pressures such as drought, flooding, fire, government policies, financial insecurity, and physical injuries. Extant research has revealed that mental health stigma, lack of access to care in rural areas, and negative coping responses (alcohol abuse, suicide, prescription drugs use) exacerbate the challenge of producer responses to short and long-term adversity. Resilience, the traits, processes, and capacities of producers to adapt and transform their approach to farming or ranching, when necessary, in response to stress triggers or long-term pressures, has received less research attention, particularly in the Western United States. The purpose of the study was to apply an interactionist occupational resilience theoretical perspective to the investigation of contextual factors contributing to resilience in Western United States agricultural producers. METHODS Qualitative interviews (45 to 90 minutes) were conducted with agricultural producers (n=51) from Western states and territories. Applied thematic analysis with a phenomenological lens was utilized to analyze interview transcriptions. First and second level coding were conducted to derive themes. RESULTS The analysis revealed that resilience is based upon the interactions between traits of producers and the context of agriculture. Four themes were generated (Agricultural Life, External Stressors, Traits and Adaptations, and Supports and Resources), supported by subthemes. The themes and subthemes are depicted in an agricultural producer resiliency model. The findings shed light on the equivocal role of neighbors in providing support for each other and the double-edged sword of co-working with family. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore that social capital is an important mechanism for supporting farmers and ranchers, as those with stronger social resources are more resilient. We recommend more funding to tailor stress and mental health programming to the specifics of agriculture, integration of behavioral health in primary care as a mechanism to increase access to care, and more intentional technical assistance for farmers and ranchers on strategic planning and problem solving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Freeman
- College of Education and Human Development/Cooperative Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | | | | | - Katherine Breeding
- College of Education and Human Development/Counselor Education, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Lorann Stallones
- Department of Psychology, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Monica Minter
- College of Education and Human Development/Counselor Education, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
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Das B. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in agriculture: Ergonomics risk assessment and its prevention among Indian farmers. Work 2023; 76:225-241. [PMID: 36806533 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indian farmers have musculoskeletal disorders as agriculture is a physically demanding occupation. OBJECTIVES 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. METHODS Farmers were evaluated for the repetitiveness of work and MSDs using the standard Nordic questionnaire, ergonomic assessment tool (REBA), and ART tool. RESULTS 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. CONCLUSION 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banibrata Das
- Department Of Physiology, South Calcutta Girls' College University of Calcutta, 72 Sarat Bose Road, Kolkata-700025, India. Emails: ;
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Assessing the relationship between domestic work experience and musculoskeletal health among rural Nigerian women. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276380. [PMID: 36512538 PMCID: PMC9747006 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women performing strenuous domestic tasks (especially those in developing countries) are at risk of experiencing musculoskeletal pain (MSP). Physical, psychosocial, and social conditions of work in rural environments contribute to women's domestic work experiences (DWEs) and the risk of MSP. The impact of DWEs on women's health is especially severe in water-insecure countries like Nigeria. This study examines the relationship between a recently developed measure of DWEs and self-reported pain in the lower back (LBP), neck/shoulder (NSP), and elbow/hand/wrist regions (EHWP) among rural Nigerian women. METHODS Interviewer-administered survey data were collected from 356 women in four rural communities of Ibadan, Nigeria. Binary and ordinal logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between DWE factor scores, sociodemographic characteristics, and musculoskeletal pain symptoms and severity after controlling for sociodemographic covariates. Effect estimates of association were presented using the odds ratio (OR), and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) at p-value of 0.05. FINDINGS Among 356 participants, the 2-month prevalence of LBP was 58%, NSP was 30%, and EWHP 30%. High DWE scores were significantly associated with higher odds of experiencing and having more severe LBP, NSP, and EHWP. Specifically, the odds of LBP [(OR = 2.88; 95% CI = 1.64-5.11), NSP (OR = 4.58; 95% CI = 2.29-9.40) and EHWP (OR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.26-3.77)] were significantly higher among women who perceived their domestic work responsibilities as very stressful (i.e., 'high stress appraisal') compared to those with lower stress appraisal scores. Those who were time-pressured and had less autonomy over familial duties (i.e., 'high demand/low control') had significantly higher odds of LBP [(OR = 2.58; 95% CI = 1.64-4.09) and NSP (OR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.24-2.58)]. Frequently fetching and carrying water over long distances and time (i.e., 'high water sourcing and carriage') was also associated with higher odds of LBP [(OR = 1.31; 95% CI = 1.09-1.79) and NSP (OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.08-1.76). CONCLUSION Strenuous and stressful DWEs were associated with MSP among rural Nigerian women. This study provides new evidence on how the physical, social, and psychosocial factors of domestic work can increase women's risk of MSP.
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Roeder SK, Wilder DG, Fethke NB. Novel methods to detect impacts within whole-body vibration time series data. ERGONOMICS 2022; 65:1609-1620. [PMID: 35148664 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2041735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We present three candidate mathematical models for detecting impacts within time series accelerometer data in the context of whole-body vibration (WBV). In addition to WBV, data included recordings of erector spinae muscle activity and trunk posture collected during use of agricultural machines in a previous study. For each model, we evaluated associations between several mechanical and biomechanical variables at the time of predicted impact onset and the odds of subsequently observing a bilateral response of the erector spinae muscles. For all models, trunk posture at the time of impact onset was strongly associated with an observed bilateral muscle response; these associations were not observed when impacts were randomly assigned. Results provide a framework for describing the number and magnitudes of impacts that may help overcome ambiguities in current exposure metrics, such as the vibration dose value, and highlight the importance of considering posture in the evaluation of occupational WBV exposures. Practitioner summary: Common metrics of exposure to whole-body vibration do not quantify the number or magnitudes of impacts within time series accelerometer data. Three candidate impact detection methods are presented and evaluated using real-world data collected during use of agricultural machines. Results highlight the importance of considering posture when evaluating vibration exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamus K Roeder
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - David G Wilder
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Braun L, Freund J, Thielecke J, Baumeister H, Ebert DD, Titzler I. Barriers to and Facilitators of Engaging With and Adhering to Guided Internet-Based Interventions for Depression Prevention and Reduction of Pain-Related Disability in Green Professions: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Ment Health 2022; 9:e39122. [PMID: 36350684 PMCID: PMC9685507 DOI: 10.2196/39122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internet-based interventions (IBIs) are effective for the prevention and treatment of mental disorders and are valuable additions for improving routine care. However, the uptake of and adherence to IBIs are often limited. To increase the actual use of IBIs, it is important to identify factors for engaging with and adhering to IBIs. OBJECTIVE We qualitatively evaluated barriers and facilitators regarding a portfolio of guided IBIs in green professions (farmers, gardeners, and foresters). METHODS Interview participants were selected from 2 randomized controlled trials for either the prevention of depression (Prevention of Depression in Agriculturists [PROD-A]) or the reduction of pain interference (Preventive Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain in Agriculturists [PACT-A]) in green professions. The intervention group in PROD-A (N=180) participated in an IBI program, receiving access to 1 of 6 symptom-tailored IBIs. The intervention group in PACT-A (N=44) received access to an IBI for chronic pain. Overall, 41 semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Barriers and facilitators were identified via inductive qualitative content analysis, with 2 independent coders reaching almost perfect intercoder reliability (Cohen κ=0.92). A quantitative follow-up survey (30/41, 73%) was conducted to validate the results. Subgroup analyses were performed based on intervention characteristics. RESULTS We identified 42 barriers and 26 facilitators, which we assigned to 4 superordinate categories related to the intervention (20 barriers; 17 facilitators), work (4 barriers; 1 facilitator), individual (13 barriers; 8 facilitators), and technical (5 barriers; 0 facilitators) aspects. Key barriers (identified by at least 50% of the interviewees) were time-consuming work life (29/40, 73%) and time-consuming private life (23/40, 58%). Similarly, the most frequently identified facilitators included presence of motivation, curiosity, interest and perseverance (30/40, 75%), flexible time management at work (25/40, 63%), and support from family and friends (20/40, 50%). Although agreement with barriers in the quantitative follow-up survey was rather low (mean 24%, SD 11%), agreement with facilitators was substantially higher (mean 80%, SD 13%). Differences in agreement rates were found particularly between intervention completers and noncompleters. Completers agreed significantly more often that perceived IBI success; being motivated, curious, interested, and perseverant; and having a persisting level of psychological strain have been facilitating. Noncompleters agreed more often with experiencing the e-coach contact as insufficient and technical problems as hindering for intervention completion. CONCLUSIONS Based on these results, strategies such as customization of modules for more flexible and adaptive use; video chat options with the e-coach; options to facilitate social support by family, friends, or other participants; or using prompts to facilitate training completion can be derived. These approaches could be evaluated in further quantitative research designs in terms of their potential to enhance intervention use in this occupational group. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00014000, https://tinyurl.com/3bukfr48; German Clinical Trials Register DRKS0001461, https://tinyurl.com/ebsn4sns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Braun
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johanna Freund
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Professorship for Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Janika Thielecke
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Professorship for Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Professorship for Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ingrid Titzler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Shoulder work-related musculoskeletal disorders and related factors of workers in 15 industries of China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:952. [PMID: 36329459 PMCID: PMC9632074 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05917-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Changes in modern industrial production practices can easily lead to shoulder work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). The current reports on shoulder WMSD are limited to some industries are less well studied, and the sample size is usually small. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and severity of shoulder WMSD in a large sample of Chinese workers from 15 industries, analyze the possible correlations with sociodemographic and work-related variables, and compare the differences between industries. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 55,749 participants from 252 enterprises in 15 industries throughout China. A Chinese version of the musculoskeletal disease questionnaire was used to collect the demographic factors, shoulder symptoms in past 12 months, and work-related factors including posture-related factors, repetition, vibration, work organization, job control, and environmental factors as independent variables. Descriptive statistics were used, and the binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between shoulder WMSD and potential demographic and work-related factors. Results Nearly 35.5% of participants reported shoulder pain and discomfort in the previous 12 months. Biopharmaceutical manufacturing (56.2%), medical services (54.4%), and aviation services (50.1%) were the three industries with the highest prevalence of shoulder WMSD. The pain score of aviation services workers was the highest. The related factors for shoulder WMSD varied among the different industries. Conclusion Our study found a relatively high prevalence of shoulder WMSD in China. There were large differences in the prevalence of shoulder WMSD among industries, and the related factors were particular to each industry. Such information is useful to help occupational health practitioners and policymakers conduct preventive programs to reduce shoulder disorders in these working populations.
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Cheney AM, Barrera T, Rodriguez K, Jaramillo López AM. The Intersection of Workplace and Environmental Exposure on Health in Latinx Farm Working Communities in Rural Inland Southern California. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912940. [PMID: 36232240 PMCID: PMC9566176 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912940] [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] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Workplace and environmental exposures pose health risks for racial/ethnic minorities in rural agricultural communities, placing them at a disadvantage in accessing needed health care. Over three fourths (76%) of the 2.4 million farmworkers in the United States are immigrants, mostly from Mexico. However, little is known of the community health concerns and barriers to care of Latinx farmworkers in inland southern California. This qualitative study used a community-based participatory research approach, conducting nine in-home meetings to obtain meaningful community input on health concerns and barriers to access healthcare services among rural residents of the Eastern Coachella Valley, who are also located near the desert-bound Salton Sea of inland southern California. All interviews were audio-recorded and analyzed via listening to the audio recordings and summarizing data in templates and matrices. Participants discussed health concerns related to agricultural labor, including heat-related illness, musculoskeletal ailments and injuries, skin disorders, respiratory illness, and trauma. Participants raised concerns about environmental exposures related to agriculture and the nearby Salton Sea, a highly saline lakebed, and proposed solutions to improve the health of their communities. The findings from this study suggest farmworkers are aware of the health risks posed by living and working in rural farmlands but lack resources and information to act upon and advocate for improved public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Marie Cheney
- Department of Social Medicine Population and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Tatiana Barrera
- School of Medicine Undergraduate Medical Education, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Katheryn Rodriguez
- Department of Anthropology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Ana María Jaramillo López
- Estudios de Población, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana 22560, Baja California, Mexico
- Comisión de Salud Fronteriza México—Estados Unidos, Tijuana 22010, Baja California, Mexico
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11
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Hassani M, Hesampour R, Bartnicka J, Monjezi N, Ezbarami SM. Evaluation of working conditions, work postures, musculoskeletal disorders and low back pain among sugar production workers. Work 2022; 73:273-289. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-210873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: It is generally agreed that musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a severe health concern, particularly for agricultural laborers. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to identify risk factors and work-related disorders among agricultural workers at Amirkabir agro-industry company in Iran. METHOD: A total of 158 workers, of which 66 were manual harvesting workers (four postures), 40 were fertilizer transportation workers (three postures), and 52 were spraying workers (one posture), were included in the study. The research used questionnaires to collect data, and the postures were analyzed using 3DSSPP software. Related risk factors such as age, body mass index, work experience, working hours, and sports activity were analyzed. RESULTS: The incidence rate of lower back pain (94%), knee pain (82%), neck pain (69%), upper-back (63%), and shoulder (63%) were calculated. The logistic regression revealed that working hours and sports activities are significantly correlated to the wrist/hand and neck MSD with 5.62 and 6.38 times more likely among manual harvesting workers. The 3DSSPP software estimated that the lower back pain, especially in the first posture, for manure transportation workers was very high. Maximum L5-S1 compression, shear, and moment forces in the first posture among manure transportation workers were 7113 N and 472 N, -381 N-m, respectively. CONCLUSION: The 3DSSPP results also illustrated that compression, shear, and moment forces exceeded the NIOSH limit for the other postures. After interventions, compression, shear, and moment forces among all farm workers decreased. These findings emphasize that farm workers need to be under surveillance continuously at their workstations where interventions and improvement in specific tasks are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hassani
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Hesampour
- Department of Agricultural Machinery and Mechanization, Ramin University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mollasani, Iran
| | - Joanna Bartnicka
- Department of Organization and Management, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Nasim Monjezi
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahebeh Mirzaei Ezbarami
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Berman JD, Ramirez MR, Bell JE, Bilotta R, Gerr F, Fethke NB. The association between drought conditions and increased occupational psychosocial stress among U.S. farmers: An occupational cohort study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 798:149245. [PMID: 34320456 PMCID: PMC9940133 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drought represents a globally relevant natural disaster linked to adverse health. Evidence has shown agricultural communities to be particularly susceptible to drought, but there is a limited understanding of how drought may impact occupational stress in farmers. METHODS We used repeated measures data collected in the Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Agricultural Workers Cohort study, including 498 Midwestern U.S. farmers surveyed with a Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) at six-month intervals in 312 counties from 2012 through 2015. A longitudinal linear mixed effects model was used to estimate the change in job strain ratio, a continuous metric of occupational psychosocial stress, during drought conditions measured with a 12-month standardized precipitation index. We further evaluated associations between drought and psychological job demand and job decision latitude, the job strain components, and applied a stratified analysis to evaluate differences by participant sex, age, and geography. RESULTS During the growing season, the job strain ratio increased by 0.031 (95% CI: 0.012, 0.05) during drought conditions, an amount equivalent to a one-half standard deviation change (Cohen's D = 0.5), compared to non-drought conditions. The association between drought and the job strain ratio was driven mostly by increases in the psychological job demand (2.09; 95% CI: 0.94, 3.24). No risk differences were observed by sex, age group, or geographic region. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a previously unidentified association between drought and increased occupational psychosocial stress among farmers. With North American climate anticipated to become hotter and drier, these findings could provide important health effects data for federal drought early warning systems and mitigation plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse D Berman
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Marizen R Ramirez
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jesse E Bell
- Environmental, Agricultural, and Occupational Health, College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, 984388 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Rocky Bilotta
- ISciences, L.L.C. and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration's National Centers for Environmental Information, 151 Patton Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - Fredric Gerr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, 145 N Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, 145 N Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Shimo S, Sakamoto Y, Amari T, Chino M, Sakamoto R, Nagai M. Differences between the Sexes in the Relationship between Chronic Pain, Fatigue, and QuickDASH among Community-Dwelling Elderly People in Japan. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9060630. [PMID: 34070450 PMCID: PMC8230304 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9060630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain and fatigue have negative effects on the health, ADL, work, and hobbies of the elderly. As the proportion of people 65 years of age and older in the population increases, chronic pain and disability research regarding this group is receiving more consideration. However, little empirical evidence of the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and physical disability between the sexes is available. This study investigated the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and instrumental activities of daily living among community-dwelling elderly people by sex in Japan. Concerning the presence of chronic pain, 61% of males and 78% of females reported chronic pain, indicating that many elderly people living in the community suffer from chronic pain and fatigue on a daily basis. The number of sites of chronic pain was higher in females than in males (p = 0.016), with more chronic pain in the knees (p < 0.001) and upper arms (p = 0.014). Regarding chronic pain, males showed a higher correlation with QuickDASH-DS (rs = 0.433, p = 0.017) and QuickDASH-SM (rs = 0.643, p = 0.018) than females. Furthermore, fatigue also showed a higher correlation with QuickDASH-W (rs = 0.531, p = 0.003) in males than in females. These results indicate that the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and QuickDASH differed between the sexes among community-dwelling elderly people in Japan. A better understanding of the risk factors for elderly chronic pain and fatigue among sexes will facilitate the development of elderly healthcare welfare and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Shimo
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Health Science University, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-555-83-5266
| | - Yuta Sakamoto
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Science University, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan; (Y.S.); (T.A.)
| | - Takashi Amari
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Science University, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan; (Y.S.); (T.A.)
| | - Masaaki Chino
- Yamanashi Research Institute Foundation, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0031, Japan;
| | - Rie Sakamoto
- Fuefuki City Council of Social Welfare, Fuefuki, Yamanashi 406-0822, Japan;
| | - Masanori Nagai
- Department of Welfare Psychology, Health Science University, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan;
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Hayati A, Marzban A. Linkage between machine power utilization and ergonomics, with reference to reducing exertions at work. Work 2020; 67:949-957. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-203345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Despite mechanization development, leafy vegetable cultivation (LVC), as a labor-intensive activity in both developed and developing countries, still suffers from heavy physical activities. OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluated the human physiological strains of LVC’s workers to identify relationships among contributing factors affecting human physiological strains. METHODS: Thirty male workers were included in this study. Working heart rate (HR) was measured using a heart rate sensor during various operations. The time taken to treat a known area was measured using a stopwatch to calculate work speed (or field capacity (FC)) for each operation. Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression were used to investigate the relationships among HR, heart rate ratio, FC and mechanization status (MS), and human energy expenditure rate and total energy expenditure per unit area. RESULTS: The highest HR was at seedbed preparing (120.1 beats/min) and lowest at manual harvesting (87.8 beats/min). Manual hoe-used operations (seedbed preparing, manure application and irrigating) were demonstrated as the critical operations concerning physiological strains. The operations performed by machine power corresponded to a high FC. CONCLUSIONS: Variables influencing the area treating speed (i.e. MS and FC) are negatively linked to the human energy consumed per unit area and variable changed in time unit (i.e. HR) was positively linked to the human energy expenditure speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Hayati
- Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Khuzestan, Iran
| | - Afshin Marzban
- Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Khuzestan, Iran
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15
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Thamsuwan O, Milosavljevic S, Srinivasan D, Trask C. Potential exoskeleton uses for reducing low back muscular activity during farm tasks. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:1017-1028. [PMID: 32926450 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the sustainability of the agricultural workforce has been threatened by the high prevalence of back pain, developing effective interventions to reduce its burden within farming will contribute to the long-term health and productivity of workers. Passive back-support exoskeletons are being explored as an intervention to reduce the physical demands on the back muscles, and consequently mitigate the risk of back pain, in many industrial sectors. METHODS This study investigated whether exoskeleton use could reduce farmers' low back muscle load. Electromyography was used to evaluate exoskeleton use in field and laboratory settings. A total of 14 farmers (13 males and 1 female) with a mean age of 49 (SD = 12) years and 6 female nonfarmers (mean age 28, SD = 5 years) performed a standardized set of tasks that included symmetric and asymmetric lifting and sustained trunk flexion. Following the standardized tasks, 14 farmers also performed regular, real-world, farm tasks with and without use of the exoskeleton at their farms. RESULTS Exoskeleton use decreased back muscular load during farming activities up to 65%, 56%, and 48% in static, median, and peak muscle activity, respectively. This indicates potential benefits of exoskeleton use to help farmers work under less muscular load. Paradoxically, exoskeleton use during standardized tasks increased muscle activity for some participants. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential effects of using passive exoskeletons in agriculture through observational and experimental research, and is among the first that explores the potential for using exoskeletons during actual work tasks in farm settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornwipa Thamsuwan
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Canada
| | | | - Divya Srinivasan
- Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg Virginia USA
| | - Catherine Trask
- Ergonomics Division, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Health Systems Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm Sweden
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Fethke NB, Schall MC, Chen H, Branch CA, Merlino LA. Biomechanical factors during common agricultural activities: Results of on-farm exposure assessments using direct measurement methods. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2020; 17:85-96. [PMID: 32069181 PMCID: PMC8256625 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2020.1717502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural work is associated with increased risk of adverse musculoskeletal health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to quantify exposure to biomechanical factors among a sample (n = 55) of farmers in the Midwest region of the U.S. while they performed a variety of routine agricultural activities, and to compare exposure levels between these activities. Surface electromyography was used to estimate activity levels of the erector spinae, upper trapezius, forearm flexor, and forearm extensor muscle groups. Simultaneously, inertial sensors were used to measure kinematics of the trunk, upper arm, and wrist. In general, lower muscle activity levels, less extreme postures, and slower movement speeds were observed during activities that involved primarily the use of agricultural machinery in comparison to manual activities, suggesting a potential advantage of mechanization relative to musculoskeletal health. Median wrist movement speeds exceeding recently proposed exposure thresholds were also observed during many manual activities, such as milking animals and repairing equipment. Upper arm postures and movement speeds did not appear to confer excessive risk for shoulder-related outcomes (on the whole), but interpretation of the results is limited by a sampling approach that may not have captured the full extent of exposure variation. Not surprisingly, substantial variation in exposure levels were observed within each agricultural activity, which is related to substantial variation in the equipment, tools, and work practices used by participants. Ultimately, the results of this study contribute to an emerging literature in which the physical demands of routine agricultural work have been described on the basis of sensor-based measurements rather than more common self-report or observation-based approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B Fethke
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Mark C Schall
- Industrial & Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Howard Chen
- Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | | | - Linda A Merlino
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Arora K, Cheyney M, Gerr F, Bhagianadh D, Gibbs J, Anthony TR. Assessing Health and Safety Concerns and Psychological Stressors among Agricultural Workers in the U.S. Midwest. J Agric Saf Health 2020; 26:45-58. [PMID: 32429619 DOI: 10.13031/jash.13660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
There is limited research exploring agricultural workers' own perspectives on the relative importance of the hazards and stressors they experience. There is also a lack of evidence on whether this reporting differs by method of elicitation. Finally, very little research exists on how to improve mail survey response rates among agricultural workers. We examined health and safety concerns and psychological stressors among Midwestern farmers. We assessed whether these reports varied by survey mode (mail survey versus in-person survey). The efficacy of two different types of incentives to enhance mail survey response rates among agricultural workers was also investigated. In 2018, a needs assessment survey was developed and mailed to a random sample of farm owner-operators in Iowa, Ohio, and Missouri, with randomly assigned prepaid or promised monetary incentives. In-person surveys were conducted among farm owner-operators and hired workers at three regional farm shows in Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska. The mail survey response rates were compared by incentive type. Content analysis was used to generate themes associated with health and safety concerns and psychological stressors, which were then ranked by frequency counts. Chi-square tests were used to analyze variation in the distribution of these themes by survey mode. The response rate for the $1 prepaid incentive was double that of the $10 promised incentive. Content analysis identified 13 health and safety concerns and eight psychological stressors. Chemicals, equipment/tools, and health outcomes were the most frequently noted health and safety concerns. Finances, climate/weather, and farm workload and management were the most frequently noted psychological stressors. Although there was considerable overlap in survey responses across mail and in-person respondents, important differences by sample and survey mode characteristics were observed. The results can support a variety of stakeholders in prioritizing and developing interventions and educational resources to address health and safety concerns and psychological stressors among Midwestern farmers. Our findings also contribute to the evidence base on primary data collection methods for agricultural workers.
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18
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Fethke NB, Schall MC, Merlino LA, Chen H, Branch CA, Ramaswamy M. Whole-Body Vibration and Trunk Posture During Operation of Agricultural Machinery. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:1123-1133. [PMID: 30239568 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) is common among agricultural workers and is associated with musculoskeletal health outcomes such as low back pain. Little is known, however, about the characteristics of exposure experienced during actual production practices. We measured WBV levels during agricultural machinery use among a sample of farmers (n = 55) performing routine agricultural activities and explored machinery attributes that may explain WBV summary measures. We also measured trunk posture to provide additional information about physical exposures during machinery operation. Measurements were made on-farm and during actual work conditions of a sample of agricultural machines (n = 112), including tractors, combines, heavy utility vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Results indicated the presence of high levels of vibration (median frequency-weighted root-mean-square acceleration of approximately 0.8 m s-2) with time signatures that include high-amplitude mechanical shocks (median crest factor of nearly 23). Compared to other machinery types, combines exhibited the lowest WBV levels and among the most favorable trunk postures. Substantial variability was observed in both the WBV and trunk posture summary measures, suggesting for future studies that alternative sampling strategies are needed to fully capture temporal patterns of machinery use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Shelby Center Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Linda A Merlino
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Howard Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Wiggins Hall Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Cassidy A Branch
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Maya Ramaswamy
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
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19
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Kim M, Yoo JI, Kim MJ, Na JB, Lee SI, Park KS. Prevalence of Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Diseases and Disability among Fruit Tree Farmers in Korea: Cross-Sectional Study. Yonsei Med J 2019; 60:870-875. [PMID: 31433585 PMCID: PMC6704024 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2019.60.9.870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of upper extremity musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases and to identify factors influencing disability among fruit tree farmers in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of the 1150 subjects of the Namgaram study, 460 fruit tree farmers completed a questionnaire and underwent clinical evaluations, including physical assessments, laboratory tests, simple radiographic examinations, and magnetic resonance imaging studies of the upper extremities. Disability was assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand outcome measure. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and regression analyses using SPSS Win 24.0. RESULTS The prevalences of upper extremity MSK diseases were 60.4% for rotator cuff tear, 20.9% for golf elbow, 40.9% for tennis elbow, and 58.0% for hand osteoarthritis. Disability in fruit farmers was associated with female sex (B=-4.47, p<0.001), smoking (B=-4.00, p=0.026), depression (B=2.83, p<0.001), working hours (B=0.96, p=0.001), injuries of the arms (B=10.78, p<0.001) and shoulders (B=6.75, p<0.001), and numbers of upper extremity MSK diseases (B=2.02, p=0.001), with 26.5% of the variance explained (R²=0.265, Durbin-Watson test=1.81, p<0.001). CONCLUSION Fruit tree farmers remain at risk for MSK diseases of the upper extremities. Disability tended to worsen with more MSK diseases. It is necessary to not only educate farmers about prevention strategies, but also to develop an effective management system for agricultural work-related MSK diseases and a surveillance system at the government level for the health problems of farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minju Kim
- Department of Nursing, Dong-A University College of Nursing, Busan, Korea
| | - Jun Il Yoo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Gyeongsang National University Hospital and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Mi Ji Kim
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Jae Boem Na
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Radiology and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Sang Il Lee
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Ki Soo Park
- Center for Farmer's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea.
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20
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Upasani S, Franco R, Niewolny K, Srinivasan D. The Potential for Exoskeletons to Improve Health and Safety in Agriculture—Perspectives from Service Providers. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2019.1575930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Satyajit Upasani
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Roberto Franco
- Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Kim Niewolny
- Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Divya Srinivasan
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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21
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Bosch LM, van der Molen HF, Frings-Dresen MHW. Optimizing implementation of interventions in agriculture for occupational upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders: Results of an expert panel. Work 2018; 61:413-420. [PMID: 30373985 PMCID: PMC6311361 DOI: 10.3233/wor-182806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSD) is reported worldwide as the second-largest occupational musculoskeletal disorder in agriculture. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study is to identify facilitators and barriers for employers and workers for implementing interventions to reduce work-related risk factors associated with occupational UEMSD in the agricultural sector, according to health and safety consultants. METHODS An expert panel was used comprising nine health and safety consultants from the Dutch agricultural sector. RESULTS Facilitators and barriers for employers and workers were categorized in the following themes: knowledge, skills, attitude, culture, costs, loss of income, facilitation and employability. There were no differences in facilitators and barriers between UEMSD. CONCLUSIONS Facilitators and barriers for implementing preventive interventions in agriculture were on organizational level, like diversity in choice of preventive devices, and personal level such as willingness if there is no work disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas M Bosch
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Netherlands Center for Occupational Diseases, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk F van der Molen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Netherlands Center for Occupational Diseases, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique H W Frings-Dresen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Netherlands Center for Occupational Diseases, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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22
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Swanberg J, Clouser JM, Gan W, Flunker JC, Westneat S, Browning SR. Poor safety climate, long work hours, and musculoskeletal discomfort among Latino horse farm workers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2017; 72:264-271. [PMID: 27594197 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2016.1216387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and work-related factors associated with elevated MSD among Latino thoroughbred farm workers. Participants (N = 225) were recruited using a community-based purposive sampling approach to participate in in-person interviews. Of these workers, 85% experienced MSD. MSD was divided into tertiles; the upper tertile was defined as elevated. Multivariable Poisson regression revealed associations between any elevated MSD and longer tenure on horse farms, longer work hours, and poor safety climate. Elevated neck/back MSD was associated with longer tenure, longer work hours, and poor safety climate. Elevated upper extremity MSD was associated with age and poor safety climate. Elevated lower extremity MSD was associated with longer tenure, longer work hours, and being female. Musculoskeletal discomfort is common among these workers. Improving safety climate and minimizing long work hours is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Swanberg
- a School of Social Work , University of Maryland , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Jessica Miller Clouser
- b Department of Health, Behavior and Society , College of Public Health, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Wenqi Gan
- c Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health , College of Public Health, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - John C Flunker
- d Department of Epidemiology, Department of Health Behavior , College of Public Health, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Susan Westneat
- c Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health , College of Public Health, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Steven R Browning
- e Department of Epidemiology , College of Public Health, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
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23
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Douphrate DI, Fethke NB, Nonnenmann MW, Rodriguez A, Hagevoort R, Gimeno Ruiz de Porras D. Full-shift and task-specific upper extremity muscle activity among US large-herd dairy parlour workers. ERGONOMICS 2017; 60:1042-1054. [PMID: 27854562 PMCID: PMC7020102 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2016.1262464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
US large-herd dairy parlour workers experience a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the upper extremity. The purpose of this study was to estimate and compare full-shift and task-specific muscle activity of the upper extremity among parlour workers. Surface electromyography data were recorded continuously throughout a full work shift for each participant (n = 60). For a subset of participants (n = 33), muscular effort was estimated for milking task cycles. Lower muscle activity levels and higher per cent muscular rest was observed among rotary parlour participants as compared to herringbone and parallel parlour participants for anterior deltoid, forearm flexor and forearm extensor muscles. These findings suggest rotary parlours may offer workstation designs or work organisational dynamics which may be more beneficial to the health and performance of the worker, as compared to parallel or herringbone parlours. Practitioner Summary: Study findings suggest milking parlour configurations present different biomechanical demands on workers which may influence worker health and performance. Our findings will enable more informed decisions regarding both engineering (e.g. parlour configuration or milking equipment) and administrative (e.g. work organisation) control strategies for large-herd milking parlours.
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Affiliation(s)
- David I Douphrate
- a School of Public Health in San Antonio , University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , San Antonio , TX , USA
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- b College of Public Health , University of Iowa , Iowa City , IA , USA
| | | | - Anabel Rodriguez
- a School of Public Health in San Antonio , University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , San Antonio , TX , USA
| | - Robert Hagevoort
- c Dairy Extension , New Mexico State University , Clovis , NM , USA
| | - David Gimeno Ruiz de Porras
- a School of Public Health in San Antonio , University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , San Antonio , TX , USA
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24
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Velasco-Mondragon E, Jimenez A, Palladino-Davis AG, Davis D, Escamilla-Cejudo JA. Hispanic health in the USA: a scoping review of the literature. Public Health Rev 2016; 37:31. [PMID: 29450072 PMCID: PMC5809877 DOI: 10.1186/s40985-016-0043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hispanics are the largest minority group in the USA. They contribute to the economy, cultural diversity, and health of the nation. Assessing their health status and health needs is key to inform health policy formulation and program implementation. To this end, we conducted a scoping review of the literature and national statistics on Hispanic health in the USA using a modified social-ecological framework that includes social determinants of health, health disparities, risk factors, and health services, as they shape the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. These social, environmental, and biological forces have modified the epidemiologic profile of Hispanics in the USA, with cancer being the leading cause of mortality, followed by cardiovascular diseases and unintentional injuries. Implementation of the Affordable Care Act has resulted in improved access to health services for Hispanics, but challenges remain due to limited cultural sensitivity, health literacy, and a shortage of Hispanic health care providers. Acculturation barriers and underinsured or uninsured status remain as major obstacles to health care access. Advantageous health outcomes from the "Hispanic Mortality Paradox" and the "Latina Birth Outcomes Paradox" persist, but health gains may be offset in the future by increasing rates of obesity and diabetes. Recommendations focus on the adoption of the Health in All Policies framework, expanding access to health care, developing cultural sensitivity in the health care workforce, and generating and disseminating research findings on Hispanic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Velasco-Mondragon
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University California, 1310 Johnson Lane; H-82, Rm. 213, Vallejo, CA 94592 USA
| | - Angela Jimenez
- Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, USA
| | | | - Dawn Davis
- St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, USA
| | - Jose A. Escamilla-Cejudo
- Regional Advisor on Health Information and Analysis, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Foggy Bottom, USA
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Load Handling and Repetitive Movements Are Associated with Chronic Low Back Pain among Jute Mill Workers in India. PAIN RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2016; 2016:7843216. [PMID: 27563463 PMCID: PMC4985573 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7843216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. WHO recognizes low back pain as one of the most important ergonomic stressors. Therefore, the present study was designed to find out the magnitude of the problem among jute mill workers in India and identify possible associations. Methodology. This cross-sectional workplace based study was conducted among eight (8) selected jute mills of India. Subjects with self-reported back pain for at least last 12 weeks were included and n = 717 male jute mill workers actively engaged in work entered the study and completed all assessments. Results. Among all participants 55% (n = 392) had current chronic low back pain. Age was an important association with subjects in the age group of 40–59 years more likely to have pain (p = 0.02, OR 1.44). Regarding ergonomic risk factors lifting of load of more than 20 kg (p = 0.04, OR 1.42) and repetitive movements of limbs (p = 0.03, OR 0.67) were significant associations of chronic low back pain. Conclusion. This study identified a significant prevalence of current chronic low back pain among jute mill workers. Regarding ergonomic risk factors the present study has identified two significant associations: lifting of load above 20 kg and repetitive movements of limbs. Therefore, this study has identified need for workplace interventions in this occupational group employing approximately 3,50,000 workers in India.
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Keawduangdee P, Puntumetakul R, Swangnetr M, Laohasiriwong W, Settheetham D, Yamauchi J, Boucaut R. Prevalence of low back pain and associated factors among farmers during the rice transplanting process. J Phys Ther Sci 2015; 27:2239-45. [PMID: 26311961 PMCID: PMC4540856 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.27.2239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of low back pain and
associated factors in Thai rice farmers during the rice transplanting process. [Subjects
and Methods] Three hundred and forty-four farmers, aged 20–59 years old, were asked to
answer a questionnaire modified from the Standard Nordic Questionnaire (Thai version). The
questionnaire sought demographic, back-related, and psychosocial data. [Results] The
results showed that the prevalence of low back pain was 83.1%. Farmers younger than
45 years old who worked in the field fewer than six days were more likely to experience
low back pain than those who worked for at least six days. Farmers with high stress levels
were more likely to have low back pain. [Conclusion] In the rice transplanting process,
the low back pain experienced by the farmers was associated with the weekly work duration
and stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petcharat Keawduangdee
- Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, Thailand ; Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance (BNOJPH), Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Rungthip Puntumetakul
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance (BNOJPH), Khon Kaen University, Thailand ; School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Manida Swangnetr
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance (BNOJPH), Khon Kaen University, Thailand ; Program of Production Technology, Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Wongsa Laohasiriwong
- Department of Public Health Administration, Faculty of Public Health, Board Committee of Research and Training Centre for Enhancing Quality of Life of Working Age People (REQW), Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Dariwan Settheetham
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
| | - Junichiro Yamauchi
- Graduate School of Human Health Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan ; Future Institute for Sport Science, Japan
| | - Rose Boucaut
- School of Health Science (Physiotherapy), University of South Australia, Australia
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