Kamioka H, Okuizumi H, Handa S, Kitayuguchi J, Machida R. Effect of non-surgical interventions on pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue: an exploratory systematic review based on randomized controlled trials.
J Rural Med 2022;
17:1-13. [PMID:
35047096 PMCID:
PMC8753261 DOI:
10.2185/jrm.2021-038]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: There are many observational and clinical studies on pain
treatment in farmers; however, little is known about the effects of interventions based
only on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on diseases of the musculoskeletal system or
connective tissue (D-MSCT). This review aimed to summarize evidence on the effects of
non-surgical interventions for pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with
D-MSCT.
Materials and Methods: We searched seven databases, including MEDLINE, and
three clinical trial registries, including the International Clinical Trials Registry
Platform, from inception up to February 15, 2021, to identify studies that included at
least one treatment group wherein nonsurgical interventions were applied. We focused on 1)
pain relief and symptom improvement and 2) quality of life and improvement in physical
fitness.
Results: Four studies (three on low back pain and one on knee
osteoarthritis) met all the inclusion criteria. Overall, the risk of bias was high, and
meta-analysis could not be performed due to heterogeneity. However, a participatory
ergonomic approach, exercise centered on strength training with a transtheoretical model,
and/or a combination of both could be included in effective educational programs, at least
in the short term, to prevent and/or reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. Based on
internal and external validity, we could postulate a future research agenda and a
conceptual education model to prevent D-MSCT in farmers.
Conclusion: Participatory ergonomic intervention, exercise centered on
strength training, and/or a combination of both could be included for effective
educational programs to prevent and reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. High-quality
RCTs with a less risk of bias will be implemented for many agricultural work types in
various parts worldwide (especially developing countries and regions) during the COVID-19
pandemic.
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