Associations between individual and workplace risk factors for self-reported neck pain and disability among female office workers

Identification of prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and various risk factors in dentists

Purpose

The awkward and repetitive movements lead to tissue straining, potentially leading to painful musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs in dentists result in work inefficiency and a reduction in work hours. A survey was conducted to assess the prevalence of MSDs amongst the dental population of interest.

Methods

Customized individual detail questionnaires, Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaires, and Level of Pain estimation using the Likert Scale were used to deduce the various responsible risk factors for the occurrence of MSDs in dentists. Inferential statistical analysis was done to identify the prevalence and severity of the MSDs. The Chi-Square test (95 % confidence interval) was used to identify and compare the association of risk factors involved in MSDs with the occurrence of the Effect of MSDs, the presence of MSDs, and the severity of the MSDs.

Results

The results of the study deduced that the dentists followed the sedentary work practices. The dentists experienced maximum discomfort in the neck region, which was accompanied by the discomfort experienced in the lower back, hands and wrists, making the upper extremity being more susceptible to the MSDs. Gender risk factors the, the prevalence of MSDs in the dentist's upper back, and the severity of pain in the upper back region showed a significant association level.

Conclusion

The wrist posture, the prevalence of MSDs and the severity of pain in the dentists' neck, shoulder and upper back showed a significant association level.

Longer working hours and musculoskeletal pain: a meta-analysis

Objectives. Musculoskeletal pain is the most common health problem in the workplace, and one of the most important risk factors for this pain is longer working hours. This study aimed to investigate the association between long working hours and musculoskeletal pain. Methods. Based on the keywords, two scientific sources - PubMed and Embase - were reviewed. The time limit search included articles that were published until May 2020 and only studies published in English were eligible. The results of the studies were combined based on random effects and pooled odds ratio (OR) reported. The degree of heterogeneity in all analyses was investigated and reported based on χ² and I² tests. Publishing bias was also measured using statistical tests. Results. Longer working hours are associated with increased musculoskeletal pain with OR = 1.11 and 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.08, 1.14]. The result was OR = 1.52 and 95% CI [1.14, 2.03] in men and OR = 1.11 and 95% CI [1.00, 1.24] in women. Conclusion. Long working hours are an important and threatening factor for musculoskeletal health. Therefore, this issue should be considered in health policy as well as treatment and prevention.

Investigation of the multi-component ergonomics intervention effects on improving musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication: A case study in open-plan offices

BACKGROUND

Office workers are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) due to improper workstations. Open-plan bank office employees must communicate with bank clerks properly and perform financial activity precisely, but noise is a factor that disrupts their communication. Therefore, MSS and annoying noise are two of the main problems in open-plan offices.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effects of a multi-component intervention involving individual (employee ergonomics training) and physical (improvements in workstation design and work environment) ergonomic factors on musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication in open-plan environments.

METHODS

A preliminary survey was carried out to investigate the overall ergonomics problems, the tasks and time analysis, workstations setup, the prevalence of MSS (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire), physical discomfort (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]), and posture (assessed by Rapid Upper Limb Assessment [RULA] method), environmental status (measurement of noise), and speech intelligibility (assessed by Speech Interference Level [SIL] method based on ISO 9921). The multi-component interventions were performed afterward based on the data collected. A baseline assessment and a 9-month follow-up assessment were conducted.

RESULTS

The results showed a significant decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (shoulders, elbows, and low back), physical discomfort, and awkward working postures after the intervention. A considerable improvement was also found in speech intelligibility post-intervention. The post-intervention questionnaire survey also indicated that employees generally favored the redesigned workstations.

CONCLUSION

The results support the effectiveness of implementing multi-component interventions in open-plan bank offices to improve musculoskeletal complaints and speech communication.

Study of the interrelationships between musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial risk factors in occupational health and safety technicians

Objectives. The aim of this work is to examine the presence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and the exposure to psychosocial risk in a sample of 399 occupational health and safety technicians (OHSTs), deepening the associations between both aspects. Methods. The standardized Nordic questionnaire and the Decore questionnaire were used. Different descriptive and correlational analyses and a multivariate analysis model were carried out. Results. In total, 77.17% of the participants affirmed having suffered some muscle ailments. The most critical psychosocial risk factors are those related to the rewards that the worker obtains for their work, with 54.7% of the technicians in a situation of alert or emergency. It is highlighted that the fact of not feeling professionally valued, working outside working hours, having musculoskeletal discomfort and perceiving a state of poor or fair health increase the global risk index (GRI) score. Conclusions. The study highlights the high exposure of OHSTs to both physical and psychosocial risk factors as well as the significant relationship between these variables. Furthermore, the predictive model shows the variables that best predict the probability of MSDs: gender, training in emerging risks, perceived health and exposure to psychosocial risk.

Posture and time spent using a smartphone are not correlated with neck pain and disability in young adults: A cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

To determine the impact of smartphone use on neck impairment and functional limitation in university students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted in a sample of students selected through convenience sampling between September 2016 and March 2017. The inclusion criteria were university students at the School of Medicine and Surgery, routine/daily use of mobile devices with advanced computing and connectivity capability built on an operating system, and aged 18-30 years. Participants completed questionnaires that measured general characteristics of smartphone use and demographic characteristics. Neck pain was assessed using a visual analogue pain score (VAS) and a pain drawing (PD); disability status was measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI-I); and cervical postures while using the phone were captured using the Deluxe Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) device.

RESULTS

A total of 238 volunteers were recruited (22.4 ± 2.2 years of age, 53.4% males), 35.9% of whom were overweight (>25 BMI). Regarding neck pain, 42.4% reported mild pain, 8.4% had moderate pain, and the remaining 49.2% had no pain. NDI-I and VAS were 3.8 ± 3.8 and 13.6 ± 18.4 mm, respectively. The pain categories did not influence the variables. No significant correlations were observed between the number of hours spent and posture (CROM) while using a smartphone and neck pain and NDI-I.

CONCLUSION

While half of young medical students reported neck pain, the use of smartphones was not correlated with neck pain and disability. While we wait for future prospective studies, there is no reason to recommend a change in smartphone use habits among young adults in the meantime.

Process evaluation of a workplace-based health promotion and exercise cluster-randomised trial to increase productivity and reduce neck pain in office workers: a RE-AIM approach

BACKGROUND

This study uses the RE-AIM framework to provide a process evaluation of a workplace-based cluster randomised trial comparing an ergonomic plus exercise intervention to an ergonomic plus health promotion intervention; and to highlight variations across organisations; and consider the implications of the findings for intervention translation.

METHOD

This study applied the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) methodology to examine the interventions' implementation and to explore the extent to which differences between participating organisations contributed to the variations in findings. Qualitative and quantitative data collected from individual participants, research team observations and organisations were interrogated to report on the five RE-AIM domains.

RESULTS

Overall reach was 22.7% but varied across organisations (range 9 to 83%). Participants were generally representative of the recruitment pool though more females (n = 452 or 59%) were recruited than were in the pool (49%). Effectiveness measures (health-related productivity loss and neck pain) varied across all organisations, with no clear pattern emerging to indicate the source of the variation. Organisation-level adoption (66%) and staffing level adoption (91%) were high. The interventions were implemented with minimal protocol variations and high staffing consistency, but organisations varied in their provision of resources (e.g. training space, seniority of liaisons). Mean adherence of participants to the EET intervention was 56% during the intervention period, but varied from 41 to 71% across organisations. At 12 months, 15% of participants reported regular EET adherence. Overall mean (SD) adherence to EHP was 56% (29%) across organisations during the intervention period (range 28 to 77%), with 62% of participants reporting regular adherence at 12 months. No organisations continued the interventions after the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Although the study protocol was implemented with high consistency and fidelity, variations in four domains (reach, effectiveness, adoption and implementation) arose between the 14 participating organisations. These variations may be the source of mixed effectiveness across organisations. Factors known to increase the success of workplace interventions, such as strong management support, a visible commitment to employee wellbeing and participant engagement in intervention design should be considered and adequately measured for future interventions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12612001154897; 29 October 2012.

Ergonomic risk assessment of smartphone users using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool

The number of smartphone users globally is rapidly increasing. This study aimed to assess the level of ergonomic risk to smartphone users, and to evaluate the correlation between any self-reported musculoskeletal disorders and the level of ergonomic risk. Thirty participants completed a questionnaire, tailored specifically for smartphone users, to determine any musculoskeletal disorders. Participants were given a seated smartphone texting task and their postures were video recorded during the task. The video scenarios were evaluated by three independent researchers to determine the level of ergonomic risk using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool. RULA is an observation-based screening tool which has been widely used to assess the postural risk of IT device users. However, it has not yet been specifically utilized with smartphone users. The RULA tool scores identified ergonomics risks from using smartphones to text. Most smartphone users had a total RULA Grand Score of 6 for both sides (left side: 80.00%, right side: 90.00%), indicating the need for further investigation and changes (Action Level 3). Notably, no participants had acceptable RULA Grand Scores of 1 or 2. The correlation between musculoskeletal disorders and the ergonomic risk among smartphone users was determined using the Chi-Square test and Fisher's exact test; p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was a significant correlation between right RULA Grand Score and neck musculoskeletal disorder (χ2 = 9.424 at p value = 0.009) and right RULA Grand Score and upper back musculoskeletal disorder (χ2 = 31.717 at p value <0.001). RULA Score B (combination of neck, trunk and leg postures) and RULA Score D (combination of Score B, muscle use and force scores for group B) were also significantly correlated with neck musculoskeletal disorders (χ2 = 19.286 at p value<0.001 and χ2 = 9.310 at p value = 0.002 respectively). The RULA results identified the high ergonomics risk of smartphone users, this resulted from two key risk factors: posture and muscle use. The neck, trunk and leg postures had a combined effect on neck musculoskeletal disorders. Future investigations should consider these factors when designing ergonomic interventions for smartphone users.

Review of scapular movement disorders among office workers having ergonomic risk

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are the most common health problems which affect millions of office workers.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine scapular positioning at rest and different anatomical planes, the assessment of pain, postural changes and the functionality of upper extremity that is caused by the lack of ergonomic principles among office workers of civil servants in TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus).

METHODS

183 individuals participated in the study and 2 groups were created by grand scores of Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool. Scapular dyskinesis, pain of upper extremity and back, physical functions and symptoms of upper extremity, the self-rated neck disability, cervical and upper thoracic posture of workers were assessed.

RESULTS

The difference between pain situation and the results of upper extremity and neck disability scores of the participants among the groups was significant (p< 0.05). No significant difference has been found statistically among the postural angle values of individuals (p> 0.05). A significant statistical difference has been found among the groups when the results of Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST) is examined (p< 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Working environment and conditions cause the wrong of working posture and thus, lead individuals to spend more energy together with physical difficulty, and consequently affect general health.

Workplace Factors Associated With Neck Pain Experienced by Computer Users: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this systematic review was to examine literature on workplace factors associated with neck pain or symptoms in computer users performing clerical functions.

METHODS

A systematic search of the Cochrane, Medline, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases was conducted for observational and experimental studies published since 2000. This review applied the case definition of The Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders.

RESULTS

Seven hundred twenty-nine studies were identified. Seven hundred and two studies were excluded. Twenty-seven studies fulfilled inclusion criteria and were assessed for risk of bias. Cross-sectional studies were commonly at risk from nonresponse bias and lack of adequate case definitions. Experimental studies were mostly at risk of bias due to confounding and participant recruitment methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Neck pain was not significantly associated with high job demands, low skill discretion, low decision authority, or low peer support. However, when these variables were combined with increased duration of computing tasks, or ergonomic demands, they reached significance. Supervisor support was found to be the only significant buffer capable of preventing these variables reaching significance in female office workers.

An Investigation of Self-reported Health-related Productivity Loss in Office Workers and Associations With Individual and Work-related Factors Using an Employer's Perspective

OBJECTIVE

Office workers have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions. This can be a significant economic burden due to health-related productivity loss. Individual and work-related factors related to office worker health-related productivity were investigated.

METHODS

A survey including the Health and Work Performance Questionnaire, which estimated productivity loss, also recorded individual and work-related factors with potential associations with health-related productivity. Muscle function and workstation ergonomics were examined through physical assessments. Linear models investigated the relationships between these factors and health-related productivity.

RESULTS

Significant factors identified were occupational category (0.001 < P < 0.050), job satisfaction (P < 0.001), psychological wellbeing (P = 0.031), and musculoskeletal pain (P = 0.023). Health-related productivity loss was greater in office workers working as managers, with lower job satisfaction and psychological wellbeing, and those with musculoskeletal pain.

CONCLUSION

Office worker health-related productivity loss is represented by a combination of both individual and work-related factors.

Modifiable individual and work-related factors associated with neck pain in 740 office workers: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Office workers have the highest incidence of neck pain of all occupations. However, the relationship between symptoms and the risk factors is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between self-reported neck pain with a comprehensive range of individual and work-related risk factors.

METHODS

This study utilised a cross-sectional study design. Office workers with and without neck pain (n=763) were recruited. Participants completed a survey which included a Pain Numerical Rating Scale (dependent variable), and measures of independent variables including demographic, individual, work-related factors, neck/shoulder muscle strength, endurance, and range of motion (ROM). The relationships between the independent and dependent variables were analysed in a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Neck pain was significantly associated with more senior occupational categories, working more than six hours per day on the computer, female sex, greater fear avoidance beliefs for work, greater psychological distress, and reduced cervical flexion ROM. The low severity of neck pain of the participants in this study may limit a robust determination of their association with the risk factor variables, but the studied sample is a realistic representation of the office worker population.

CONCLUSION

Several potentially modifiable individual and work-related factors were identified to be associated with the presence of self-reported neck pain in office workers. Future studies will be needed to investigate whether strategies to alter these modifiable risk factors translate to changes in neck pain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12612001154897 (https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=363209).

Computer users' ergonomics and quality of life - evidence from a developing country

This study is aimed at investigating the quality of workplace ergonomics at various Pakistani organizations and quality of life of computer users working in these organizations. Two hundred and thirty-five computer users (only those employees who have to do most of their job tasks on computer or laptop, and at their office) responded by filling the questionnaire covering questions on workplace ergonomics and quality of life. Findings of the study revealed the ergonomics at those organizations was poor and unfavourable. The quality of life (both physical and mental health of the employees) of respondents was poor for employees who had unfavourable ergonomic environment. The findings thus highlight an important issue prevalent at Pakistani work settings.

Comparison Between the Effects of Passive and Active Soft Tissue Therapies on Latent Trigger Points of Upper Trapezius Muscle in Women: Single-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of passive versus active soft tissue therapies on pain and ranges of motion in women with latent myofascial trigger points.

METHODS

Forty-two female patients, aged 18 to 64 years, with a history of neck pain and latent myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle were randomly assigned to 3 groups: group A received passive soft tissue therapy, group B received active soft tissue therapy, and a control group C received a sham procedure. The treatment consisted of 3 sessions in a 1-week period with 1-day break between each session. The local pain intensity, measured with a visual analog scale and pain pressure threshold (PPT) using algometry, and active cervical contralateral flexion (ACLF) measured with goniometry, were obtained at baseline, after the third session, and a week after the third session.

RESULTS

The results indicated a significant decrease in local pain intensity on the visual analog scale within each group (A and B) compared with the control group (C) (P < .05). The passive group had significant improvement in PPT compared with the control group (P < .05). There were no significant differences in ACLF after treatment between the 3 groups (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Both passive and active soft tissue therapies were determined to reduce pain intensity and increase ACLF range of motion, although passive therapy was more effective in increasing PPT in these patients compared with the control group.

Musculoskeletal symptoms among handicraft workers engaged in hand sewing tasks

Objectives:

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and associated risk factors among Iranian handicraft workers engaged in different hand sewing tasks.

Methods:

Data were collected using questionnaires (including the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire) as well as direct observations of posture (using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment [RULA] method) from 632 workers including carpet handicraft workers (n=222), textiles handicraft workers (n=209), and leather handicraft workers (n=201) in Tabriz, Iran.

Results:

The response rate was 88.8%. The overall prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints, particularly in the neck (57.9%), lower back (51.6%), and shoulders (40.5%) was relatively high. The prevalence of neck and shoulder pain was higher among females and with increasing age. Working posture and fast working were associated with neck, shoulder, and lower back pain. Years worked as a sewing worker was associated with neck and lower back pain. Long duration of continuous sitting work (>2 h) without a break was associated with neck pain. Body mass index, marital status, sport/physical activity, smoking, daily working hours, job satisfaction, and perceived pressure due to work had no effect.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate a high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among the studied handicraft workers and emphasize the importance of individual, physical, and psychosocial aspects of hand sewing tasks in this regard.

Consequences and management of neck pain by female office workers: results of a survey and clinical assessment

Background

Neck pain is common in office workers. However, the functional consequences of this pain to the individual and how they are managed are not well known. The objective of this study is understand the impact of neck pain and the strategies female office workers use to manage their pain while remaining at work.

Methods

Female office workers with neck pain (n = 174) completed a survey about the impact of their neck pain, with 51 attending a university clinic for further assessment. Consequences of neck pain were evaluated with questions on self-reported work absence, workers' compensation claims, health care use, impact on work and leisure activity, and management strategies. Responses to survey questions were analysed using descriptive analyses.

Results

The results showed that during the preceding 12 months, 57.5 % of participants had consulted a health professional due to neck pain; 42 % had reduced their leisure activities; 22.4 % had reduced their work activity and 20.7 % had been absent from work. Only 5.2 % had ever submitted a workers' compensation claim and 9 % indicated changing jobs due to neck pain. Of the 51 participants who attended for further assessment, 35.3 % indicated they 'self-managed' their neck pain with conventional medical strategies. Common strategies utilized were: prescription or over-the-counter medications (82.5 %), physiotherapy (64.7 %) and visiting their general medical practitioner (54.9 %).

Conclusions

Although the severity of neck pain experienced by female office workers in this study was low, the impact on work and leisure was substantial. These workers tended to self-manage their pain by reducing work and/or leisure activity and utilizing passive coping strategies to remain at work. Physiotherapists are ideally suited to provide self-management strategies to ensure workers remain healthy while working.

Association of individual and work-related risk factors with musculoskeletal symptoms among Iranian sewing machine operators

This cross-sectional study evaluated working conditions and the occurrence of self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms among 251 Iranian sewing machine operators. A questionnaire and direct observations of working postures using the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) method were used. A high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly in the neck/shoulders, back and hands/wrists were found. The mean RULA grand score of 5.7 highlighted a poor sewing workstation design and indicated that most operators (with posture assessed at action level 3) needed an investigation and changes in their working habits soon. Work-related factors (including number of years worked as an operator, prolonged working hours per shift, long duration of sitting work without a break, feeling pressure due to work and working postures) and individual factors (including age, gender, BMI and regular sport/physical activities) were associated with musculoskeletal symptoms in multiple logistic regression models. The findings add to the understanding of working conditions of those jobs involving sewing activities and emphasise the need for ergonomic interventions to reduce musculoskeletal symptoms in the future.

A screening tool for non-specific low back pain with disability in office workers: a 1-year prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Having a screening tool with reasonable predictive ability is essential in providing information about an individual's risk of developing a disease, allowing an examination to be conducted with limited personnel and time, and selecting the relevant individuals for therapeutic research. This study aimed to produce a screening tool to identify office workers at risk of developing non-specific low back pain (LBP) with disability, and to evaluate the tool's predictive power.

METHODS

At baseline, 615 healthy office workers filled out a self-administered questionnaire and underwent physical examination to gather potential risk factors. The incidence of LBP was collected every month thereafter. Disability level was assessed using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). The minimum RMDQ score for categorization as LBP was 3. Logistic regression was used to select significant factors to build a risk score. The coefficients from the logistic regression model were used to develop the components of a screening tool.

RESULTS

Over the 1-year follow-up, 8.8 % of participants reported incident LBP with disability. The screening tool for non-specific low back pain with disability in office workers comprised two items that contributed to the total score: previous history of LBP and psychological demand (assessed by the Job Content Questionnaire). The score range of the screening tool was 12 to 69. With a cut-off score of 53, the sensitivity was 65 % and the specificity was 68 %. The positive and negative predictive values were 16 and 95 %, respectively. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 0.76.

CONCLUSIONS

A screening tool for non-specific low back pain with disability in office workers was developed and appears to have reasonable sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, and negative predictive values. Further validation and impact studies of the screening tool in a new population of office workers are suggested.

A Parallel-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Effects of a Far-Infrared-Emitting Collar on Neck Disorder

The purpose of this study is to assess the beneficial effects of a far-infrared-emitting collar (FIRC) on the management of neck disorders. A neck disorder is generalized as neck muscle pain and its relative mental disorders because the etiologies of the neck's multidimensional syndrome are either muscle impairment or psychiatric distress. This is the first study to determine the efficacy of a FIRC by evaluating objective physical evidence and psychometric self-reports using a parallel-arm randomized sham-controlled and single-blinded design. In this trial, 60 participants with neck disorders were observed at baseline and post-intervention. Compared to the placebo group after a 30-min intervention, the FIRC demonstrated a statistically significant biological effect in elevating skin temperature and promoting blood circulation with p-values 0.003 and 0.020, respectively. In addition, FIRC application significantly reduced neck muscle tension, relieved pain, ameliorated fatigue, improved depression, and decreased anxiety. The FIRC could therefore be a potential treatment for neck disorders.

The effects of smartphone use on upper extremity muscle activity and pain threshold

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine whether muscle activity and pressure-induced pain in the upper extremities are affected by smartphone use, and to compare the effects of phone handling with one hand and with both hands. [Subjects] The study subjects were asymptomatic women 20-22 years of age. [Methods] The subjects sat in a chair with their feet on the floor and the elbow flexed, holding a smartphone positioned on the thigh. Subsequently, the subjects typed the Korean anthem for 3 min, one-handed or with both hands. Each subject repeated the task three times, with a 5-min rest period between tasks to minimize fatigue. Electromyography (EMG) was used to record the muscle activity of the upper trapezius (UT), extensor pollicis longus (EPL), and abductor pollicis (AP) during phone operation. We also used a dolorimeter to measure the pressure-induced pain threshold in the UT. [Results] We observed higher muscle activity in the UT, AP, and EPL in one-handed smartphone use than in its two-handed use. The pressure-induced pain threshold of the UT was lower after use of the smartphone, especially after one-handed use. [Conclusion] Our results show that smartphone operation with one hand caused greater UT pain and induced increased upper extremity muscle activity.

Risk factors of work-related upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders in male cameramen

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors related to upper extremities work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in cameramen.

METHODS

A questionnaire survey was performed on 166 cameramen in a broadcasting station. The questionnaire consisted of questions on the general characteristics, the health behavior, work type and duration, physical burden, ergonomic posture, and musculoskeletal symptoms. Definition of musculoskeletal disorders was based on NIOSH criteria.

RESULTS

The positive rate of WRMSDs symptoms by parts of the body was turned out to be the highest in the shoulder (14.5%) and the lowest in arm and elbow (6%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that symptoms in the shoulders increased with BMI (OR = 3.62, 95% CI = 1.03-12.71), physical burden (OR = 9.29, 95% CI = 1.72-61.78 in the very hard group) and ergonomic factors (OR = 4.50, 95% CI = 1.03-19.68). Ergonomic factors were only related to the symptoms of hand and wrist (OR = 10.21, 95% CI = 1.02-102.20). WRMSDs symptoms, in the whole upper extremities, were higher in the 50 or older age group (OR = 5.86, 95% CI = 1.03-33.26), higher BMI group (OR = 3.26, 95% CI = 1.28-13.53), non-exercise group (OR = 2.37, 95% CI = 1.24-12.59), high physical burden group (OR = 7.6, 95% CI = 1.34-52.74), and high grade ergonomic risk group (OR = 4.82, 95% CI = 1.29-16.06).

CONCLUSION

The most serious musculoskeletal disorders of male cameramen were shoulder pain. Ergonomic factors and physical burden were the most significant factors affecting WRMSDs in cameramen in this study. Cameramen should be educated to be able to improve the ergonomic occupational environment and to set up preventive measures against the risk factors during work.

Influence of neck pain on cervical movement in the sagittal plane during smartphone use

[Purpose] Smartphone use reportedly changes posture. However, how neck posture is altered in smartphone users with neck pain is unknown. This study examined changes in the posture of young adults with and without mild neck pain (MNP) when using a smartphone. [Subjects] Thirteen control subjects and 14 subjects with MNP who used smartphones were recruited. [Methods] The upper cervical (UC) and lower cervical (LC) angles in the sagittal plane were measured using an ultrasound-based motion analysis system while the seated subjects used a smartphone for 5 min. [Results] During smartphone use, the MNP group exhibited greater UC and LC flexion angles than the control group. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that young adults with MNP are more careful and more frequently utilize a neutral neck posture than young adults without MNP when using a smartphone while sitting.

Taping across the upper trapezius muscle reduces activity during a standardized typing task - an assessor-blinded randomized cross-over study

Clinically, taping is believed to alter muscle activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) whether taping across the upper trapezius (UT) muscle influenced the level of UT and lower trapezius (LT) muscle activity and the ratio of these activities (UT/LT ratio) during a static typing task; and (2) if the activity of these muscles varied with the application of tensioned taping. Forty-two healthy participants performed a 15-min typing task on three separate occasions under one of three conditions: taping applied perpendicular to the UT fibers with tension; taping without tension; and no taping. Activity of the UT and LT muscles was assessed using surface electromyography. Between conditions, significant differences were found in the change of the normalized amplitude in the UT activity (p=.027) and UT/LT ratio (p=.024) but not in the LT activity (p=.93). Compared with the no taping condition, the UT activity was less in both the tensioned taping (p=.009) and the non-tensioned taping (p=.004). There was no difference between the two taping conditions in the change of the UT (p=.91) activity and the UT/LT ratio (p=.92). In conclusion, both tensioned and non-tensioned taping across the UT muscle reduces its activity during a typing task.

Development of a neck pain risk score for predicting nonspecific neck pain with disability in office workers: a 1-year prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a neck pain risk score for office workers (NROW) to identify office workers at risk for developing nonspecific neck pain with disability.

METHODS

A 1-year prospective cohort study of 559 healthy office workers was conducted. At baseline, risk factors were assessed using questionnaires and standardized physical examination. The incidence of neck pain was collected every month thereafter. Disability level was evaluated using the neck disability index. Logistic regression was used to select significant factors to build a risk score. The coefficients from the logistic regression model were transformed into the components of a risk score.

RESULTS

Among 535 (96%) participants who were followed up for 1 year, 23% reported incident neck pain with disability (≥5). After adjusting for confounders, the onset of neck pain with disability was significantly associated with history of neck pain, chair adjustability, and perceived muscular tension. Thus, the NROW comprises 3 questions about history of neck pain, chair adjustability, and perceived muscular tension. The NROW had scores ranging from 0 to 4. A cut-off score of at least 2 had a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 48%. The positive and negative predictive values were 29% and 91%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.75.

CONCLUSION

The risk score for nonspecific neck pain with disability in office workers was developed, and it contained 3 items with scores ranging from 0 to 4. This study shows that the score appears to have reasonable sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values for the cut-off point of at least 2.

Effects of visual display terminal works on cervical movement pattern in patients with neck pain

[Purpose] This study examined changes in the onset of neck movement in young adults with and without mild neck pain (MNP) during visual display terminal (VDT) work. [Subjects] Ten control subjects and 10 subjects with MNP who were VDT workers were recruited. The upper (UC) and lower cervical (LC) spine angles in the sagittal plane were collected using an ultrasound-based motion analysis system during VDT work for 5 min. [Results] The MNP group had faster movement initiation in the UC and LC compared with the control group during VDT work. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that young adults with MNP should be cautious when performing VDT work while sitting.

Self-reported neck symptoms and use of personal computers, laptops and cell phones among Finns aged 18-65

The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible relation between self-reported neck symptoms (aches, pain or numbness) and use of computers/cell phones. The study was carried out as a cross-sectional study by posting a questionnaire to 15,000 working-age persons, and 15.1% of all respondents (6121) reported that they very often experienced physical symptoms in the neck. The results showed that they also had many other symptoms very often, and 49% used a computer daily at work and 83.9% used cell phones. We compared physical/mental symptoms of persons with symptoms in the neck quite often or more, with others. We found significant differences in the physical/mental symptoms and use of cell phones and computers. The results suggest taking into account in the future that those persons' symptoms in the neck can be associated with use of cell phones or computers.

PRACTITIONER SUMMARY

We investigated the possible relation between neck symptoms and use of computers/cell phones. We found that persons, who very often had symptoms in the neck, had also other symptoms very often (e.g. exhaustion at work). Their use of information and communication technology (e.g. computers) can associate with their symptoms.

Are religious beliefs and practices of Buddhism associated with disability and salivary cortisol in office workers with chronic low back pain?

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is common among office workers. A number of studies have established a relationship between Christianity and physical and mental health outcomes among chronic pain patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the religious beliefs and practices of Buddhism and disability and psychological stress in office workers with chronic LBP.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a self-administered questionnaire delivered by hand to 463 office workers with chronic LBP. Saliva samples were collected from a randomly selected sub-sample of respondents (n=96). Disability due to LBP was assessed using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire and psychological stress was assessed based on salivary cortisol. Two hierarchical regression models were built to determine how much variance in disability and psychological stress could be explained by religious beliefs and practices of Buddhism variables after controlling for potential confounder variables.

Results

Only 6% of variance in psychological stress was accounted for by the religious beliefs and practices of Buddhism. Those with high religiousness experienced lower psychological stress. No association between the religious beliefs and practices of Buddhism and disability level was found. Depressive symptoms were attributed to both psychological stress and disability status in our study population.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that, although being religious may improve the psychological condition in workers with chronic LBP, its effect is insufficient to reduce disability due to illness. Further research should examine the role of depression as a mediator of the effect of psychological stress on disability in patients with chronic LBP.

The Effects of Office Ergonomic Training on Musculoskeletal Complaints, Sickness Absence, and Psychological Well-Being

This study explored whether musculoskeletal complaints can be reduced by the provision of ergonomics education. A cluster randomized controlled trial study was conducted in which 3 units were randomized to intervention and received training and 3 units were given a leaflet. The effect of intervention on knowledge, workstation practices, musculoskeletal complaints, sickness absence, and psychological well-being were assessed at 6 and 12 months. Although there was no increment of knowledge among workers, significant improvements in workstation practices in the use of monitor, keyboard, and chair were observed. There were significant reductions in neck and upper and lower back complaints among workers but these did not translate into fewer days lost from work. Workers’ stress was found to be significantly reduced across the studies. In conclusion, office ergonomics training can be beneficial in reducing musculoskeletal risks and stress among workers.

Risk factors for the onset and persistence of neck pain in undergraduate students: 1-year prospective cohort study

Background

Although neck pain is common in young adulthood, studies on predictive factors for its onset and persistence are scarce. It is therefore important to identify possible risk factors among young adults so as to prevent the development of neck pain later in life.

Methods

A prospective study was carried out in healthy undergraduate students. At baseline, a self-administered questionnaire and standardized physical examination were used to collect data on biopsychosocial factors. At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months thereafter, follow-up data were collected on the incidence of neck pain. Those who reported neck pain on ≥ 2 consecutive follow-ups were categorized as having persistent neck pain. Two regression models were built to analyze risk factors for the onset and persistence of neck pain.

Results

Among the recruited sample of 684 students, 46% reported the onset of neck pain between baseline and 1-year follow-up, of whom 33% reported persistent neck pain. The onset of neck pain was associated with computer screen position not being level with the eyes and mouse position being self-rated as suitable. Factors that predicted persistence of neck pain were position of the keyboard being too high, use of computer for entertainment < 70% of total computer usage time, and students being in the second year of their studies.

Conclusion

Neck pain is quite common among undergraduate students. This study found very few proposed risk factors that predicted onset and persistence of neck pain. The future health of undergraduate students deserves consideration. However, there is still much uncertainty about factors leading to neck pain and more research is needed on this topic.

Biopsychosocial factors and perceived disability in saleswomen with concurrent low back pain

Objectives

To quantify disability level in salespeople with concurrent low back pain (LBP) and to determine the relative associations between demographic, occupational, psychosocial and clinical factors and back disability. LBP is the most common cause of work-related disability in people under 45 years of age and the most expensive cause of work-related disability, in terms of workers' compensation and medical expenses. Evidence suggests high prevalence of LBP in salespeople.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in which 184 saleswomen with a current episode of self-reported LBP working in a large up-scale department store filled out a battery of 6 self-administered questionnaires and received a standardised physical examination.

Results

Saleswomen with concurrent LBP had low disability levels. Factors significantly associated with disability were pain intensity, measured by a visual analogue scale, in the past week (p < 0.001), physical and mental health status (p < 0.001, p = 0.003, respectively), fear avoidance scores for both work and physical activities (p = 0.031, p = 0.014, respectively), past history of LBP (p = 0.019), and self-reported frequency of pushing or pulling objects placed in high positions during work (p = 0.047). A significant level (45%) of the variance in disability status was explained by these variables.

Conclusion

In clinical management of LBP workers who required prolonged standing, such as salespeople, clinicians should look for modifiable risk factors associated with disability. Specific measures need to be taken to prevent disability due to LBP among salespeople.

Interactive effects from self-reported physical and psychosocial factors in the workplace on neck pain and disability in female office workers

This study explored the interaction between physical and psychosocial factors in the workplace on neck pain and disability in female computer users. A self-report survey was used to collect data on physical risk factors (monitor location, duration of time spent using the keyboard and mouse) and psychosocial domains (as assessed by the Job Content Questionnaire). The neck disability index was the outcome measure. Interactions among the physical and psychosocial factors were examined in analysis of covariance. High supervisor support, decision authority and skill discretion protect against the negative impact of (1) time spent on computer-based tasks, (2) non-optimal placement of the computer monitor and (3) long duration of mouse use. Office workers with greater neck pain experience a combination of high physical and low psychosocial stressors at work. Prevention and intervention strategies that target both sets of risk factors are likely to be more successful than single intervention programmes. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: The results of this study demonstrate that the interaction of physical and psychosocial factors in the workplace has a stronger association with neck pain and disability than the presence of either factor alone. This finding has important implications for strategies aimed at the prevention of musculoskeletal problems in office workers.