1
|
Ibrahim BA, Gaafar SEM. Work-related musculoskeletal complaints: risk factors and impact on work productivity among university administrative employees. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2024; 99:10. [PMID: 38744733 PMCID: PMC11093958 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-024-00156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant workplace problem leading to loss of productivity and disability. Administrative workers perform computer-based tasks for long periods. Consequently, they are at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to explore the frequency and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal complaints and their impact on work productivity among administrative employees of Suez Canal University, Egypt. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 administrative employees through simple random sampling. Data were collected by an interview questionnaire including sociodemographic, work-related data, ergonomic and psychological risk factors, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (HPQ). RESULTS The frequency of work-related musculoskeletal complaints in at least one anatomical region over the past year was 74.7%. Neck (47.1%), lower back (40.7%), and shoulder (36.3%) were the most reported sites of complaints. Risk factors significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal complaints were gender, age, physical activity, work experience, workplace stress, sustained body position, awkward posture, and inadequate rest breaks. Logistic regression revealed that older age (OR = 1.039, p = 0.023), being female (OR = 2.175, p = 0.011), and not having adequate rest breaks (OR = 1.979, p = 0.019) were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. The risk factors of absenteeism include gender, age, marital status, educational level, physical activity, BMI, work experience, and musculoskeletal complaints. CONCLUSION Musculoskeletal problems were highly prevalent among administrative employees. Being female and not having adequate rest breaks were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. Ergonomic interventions and improvement of working conditions are recommended to reduce WMSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bassma A Ibrahim
- Department of Public Health, Community Medicine, Environmental Medicine, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.
| | - Samar E M Gaafar
- Department of Public Health, Community Medicine, Environmental Medicine, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kim H, Kim SJ, Hwang S. Visual display terminal syndrome and its associated factors among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Work 2024; 77:23-36. [PMID: 37483045 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220265] [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: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ever since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, students have been spending an increasingly longer time staring at electrical devices to take online courses. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the effect of the virtual class environment on eye and musculoskeletal problems in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A total of 365 university students were enrolled in this study. They completed an online survey to examine the effects of online learning on eye and musculoskeletal health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaires consisted of four sections: demographic and general information, environmental and work factors, device-related factors, and visual display terminal syndrome (VDTS). RESULTS Participants have been taking online classes of 14.5 hours per week during the COVID-19 pandemic. They reported the mean daily usage of digital devices of 4.8±2.2 hours before the pandemic but this increased to 8.1±2.9 during the pandemic. Eye fatigue and neck, shoulder, and back pain have also been reported. The mean VDTS score was significantly influenced by gender, obesity, daily exercise, regular breaks, wear of blue light-blocking glasses, daily hours of electronic device use, and illumination of room. CONCLUSION The results of this study showed that university students taking online classes suffered more from VDTS, especially in eye fatigue and neck, lower back, and shoulder pain during COVID-19 pandemic than prior. This study suggests that it is necessary to take breaks in online classes and regularly provide appropriate eye exercise and physical activity to prevent VDTS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyojin Kim
- Department of Optometry, Division of Health Science, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
- Graduate School of Health and Welfare, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
| | - Se-Jin Kim
- Department of Optometry, Division of Health Science, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
- Graduate School of Health and Welfare, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
| | - Sujin Hwang
- Graduate School of Health and Welfare, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Division of Health Science, Baekseok University, Cheonan City, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kibria MG, Parvez MS, Saha P, Talapatra S. Evaluating the ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstations and investigating their correlation with reported musculoskeletal disorders and visual symptoms among computer users in Bangladeshi university. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22179. [PMID: 38045124 PMCID: PMC10692799 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, computer users are facing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and visual symptoms. Prolonged sitting in inappropriate, awkward, and static postures on the computer workstation may cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Similarly, inappropriate placement of monitors, illumination, and other factors such as prolonged usage of computers are related to visual symptoms. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the ergonomic deficiencies of computer workstations and their correlation with MSDs and visual symptoms. METHODS This study involved 271 university employees from a Bangladeshi engineering university. Ergonomic deficiencies were evaluated through direct observations and Occupational Safety and Health Administration checklists. In addition, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence of MSDs and visual discomforts. Binary Logistic Regression (BLR) analysis was also used to examine the correlation between musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic deficiencies. RESULTS Results showed serious deficiencies in workstation setup, seating arrangement, monitor orientations, keyboard orientations, other input device orientations, and accessory setup. Employees reported that the MSDs in different body regions during the last 12 months including lower back (62 %), upper back (53 %), shoulders (47 %), and neck (25 %). Moreover, itchy eyes (69 %), tired eyes (83 %), and unclear vision (56.83 %) were the most common visual discomforts or visual symptoms among the participants. Results also revealed that monitor ergonomics and its orientation deficits were significantly associated with visual discomforts. Gender, job type, age, BMI, work experience, duration of computer work, and beak taking after 2 h were the independent variables reliably predicting the MSDs and visual symptoms. CONCLUSION It is evident that MSDs and visual symptoms were associated with computer workstation deficiencies and other work-related factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Golam Kibria
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shohel Parvez
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Palash Saha
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Subrata Talapatra
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wrede SJS, Claassen K, Rodil dos Anjos D, Kettschau JP, Broding HC. Impact of digital stress on negative emotions and physical complaints in the home office: a follow up study. Health Psychol Behav Med 2023; 11:2263068. [PMID: 37818414 PMCID: PMC10561583 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2023.2263068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many employees perform under increasingly digital conditions. Enabling home office environments became mandatory for companies wherever possible in consideration of the ongoing pandemic. Simultaneously, studies reported on digital stress. The current literature lacks rigorous research into digital stress on psychosomatic outcomes, emotions, and disease. Therefore, we endeavor to understand how digital stress developed over the course of the pandemic and if it predicts differences in negative emotions and physical complaints in the home office setting. Methods To answer the research question, we conducted an online survey among 441 employees in 2020 and 398 employees in 2022 from three municipal administrations in Germany, who were working from home at least occasionally. We used a cluster analysis to detect digitally stressed employees. Regression analyses were performed on digital stress, negative emotions, and physical complaints. Results The analysis revealed an increase from 9 to 20% in digital stress, while negative emotions and physical complaints did not show evident differences. In the multivariate model, we observe a change in the proportion of digitally stressed employees between 4 and 17%, while the control variables explain around 9%. Conclusions Digital stress did not significantly affect either negative emotions or physical complaints. However, digital stress appeared to exert a more substantial predictive influence on negative emotions. The study emphasizes rising digital stress, which contradicts a positive adaption to the digital working conditions within the observed period. The psychosomatic relations are low or lagged. Further research investigating digital stress and countermeasures, especially to understand how to prevent harmful long-term effects such as distress resulting from working from home conditions, is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sammy J. S. Wrede
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Kevin Claassen
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Dominique Rodil dos Anjos
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Jan P. Kettschau
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Horst C. Broding
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Amoudi M, Nairat Q. The Magnitude of Physical and Sensory Impairments in Post-traumatic and Non-traumatic Cervicogenic Headaches: A Comparative Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e47146. [PMID: 38021687 PMCID: PMC10651224 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cervicogenic headaches can significantly deteriorate the quality of life of patients and decrease their productivity. Few studies have been conducted to assess the magnitude of physical impairments among patients with non-traumatic and post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine and compare the magnitude of cervical physical impairments among patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches in contrast to patients with non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches, migraine, and a group of sex- and age-matched controls who did not have headaches. Methodology This was a comparative study. A total of 104 patients and 30 sex- and age-matched controls were included. The patients were stratified into three groups: post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches (n = 42), non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches (n = 30), and migraines (n = 32). The cervical active range of motion and proprioception were assessed using a goniometer, the craniovertebral angle was measured while the heads of the subjects rested in a comfortable position, the strength of the cervical flexors and extensors was assessed using a hand-held dynamometer, and endurance of the short cervical flexors was assessed while the subjects were in a supine position with no pillow. Skin roll tests were performed in the trapezius and mandibular areas, and pain was measured using the McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form. Results Patients in the post-traumatic cervicogenic headache group reported a significantly higher number of headache days (p < 0.001) compared to the controls, patients with migraines, and those with non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches. Patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches showed a significant reduction in total rotation, flexion and extension, lateral bending, and craniovertebral angle compared to the controls, patients with migraines, and those with non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches. On the other hand, the controls endured significantly longer and had stronger neck flexors and extensors compared to the patients in the migraine, non-traumatic, and post-traumatic cervicogenic headache groups, respectively. Patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches significantly reported higher affective and total pain compared to the controls and patients in the migraine group. Conclusions Patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches had significant deficits in the cervical active range of motion in the different planes, endurance, and strength of cervical flexors and extensors compared to the controls and patients with migraine and non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches. Similarly, patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches reported higher affective pain compared to the controls and patients with migraines. The results of this study indicated that patients with post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches have significantly higher physical impairments compared to patients with non-traumatic cervicogenic headaches. These differences warrant caution when combining data from patients with non-traumatic and post-traumatic cervicogenic headaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mosab Amoudi
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Arab American University, Jenin, PSE
| | - Qais Nairat
- Faculty of Educational Sciences and Teachers' Training, An-Najah National University, Nablus, PSE
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gualano MR, Santoro PE, Borrelli I, Rossi MF, Amantea C, Daniele A, Moscato U. TElewoRk-RelAted Stress (TERRA), Psychological and Physical Strain of Working From Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review. Workplace Health Saf 2023; 71:58-67. [PMID: 36382962 PMCID: PMC9672980 DOI: 10.1177/21650799221119155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many workers shifted to working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This review aims to investigate if this sudden change caused an increase in TElewoRk-RelAted stress (TERRA) which is defined as physical and mental stress caused by telework. METHODS A systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was performed of three scientific databases (PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus), which also included a quality assessment. Articles measuring stress, psychological or physical, in remote workers, published from December 2019 through August 2021 were included in the review. Results were extracted by reporting: authors, country, study design, type of workers, sample, questionnaires and measurements, and outcomes. Data were synthesized quantitatively for country, type of workers, and outcomes. RESULTS Out of the 518 articles found in the three databases, 19 articles were included in the systematic review (10,012 participants overall), and 78.9% of these highlighted an increase in TERRA levels in remote workers. Among 85.7% of the studies considering gender as a variable, TERRA levels were higher in female workers. Twelve (63.2%) of the studies investigated psychological well-being, two (10.5%) focused on the physical well-being of remote workers, three (15.8%) investigated both, and two studies had other outcomes (10.5%). CONCLUSIONS Considering the redefinition of workplaces dictated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this review highlights the emerging issue of remote work and the use of technology in working from home, emphasizing a rapidly growing occupational health problem. Remote workers need to be provided with emotional and technical support to prevent TERRA in remote workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maria Francesca Rossi
- Università Cattolica del Sacro
Cuore,Maria Francesca Rossi, Section of
Occupational Health, Department of Health Science and Public Health, Università
Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | | | | | - Umberto Moscato
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario
Agostino Gemelli IRCCS,Università Cattolica del Sacro
Cuore
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dockrell S, Culleton-Quinn E. Remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic: Computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms in university staff. Work 2023; 74:11-20. [PMID: 36189523 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mandatory remote working for workers in many sectors, including education. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the physical characteristics of workspaces, computer use, and prevalence, associated factors, and reported impact of computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) among university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional study of staff in a university in Ireland was conducted in March 2021. An anonymous online survey of computer use, work practices and 3-month prevalence and the reported impact of computer-related MSS (modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire) was conducted. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and relationships were tested using chi-squared analysis. RESULTS The analysis included 1045 responses. The majority (63%) worked solely from home, used a laptop more frequently than a desktop computer, and worked a greater number of hours. Almost half (48%) did not have a dedicated home workspace. More respondents reported their university workspace (72%) was more comfortable than their home workspace (51.2%) (p < 0.0001). Prevalence of computer-related MSS was 83% : neck (62%), shoulder (57%), lower back (47%). Laptop-related MSS was reported more frequently (82%) than desktop-related MSS (65%) (p < 0.05). Computer-related MSS was associated with workspace, equipment at home, laptop use, female gender, and righthandedness (p < 0.05). A reduction in non-work-related activities (35%), work activities (18%) and seeking medical attention (24%) was reported. CONCLUSION The prevalence of computer-related MSS was high and associated with remote working. Further studies that aim to mitigate the risks of computer-related MSS in those working remotely or in hybrid models are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Dockrell
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth Culleton-Quinn
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dessai TD, Sigdel S, Chand T, Bhat RJ, Kumar K. The impact of screen exposure among school-aged children in South India during the COVID-19 pandemic: an online survey. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY 2023. [PMCID: PMC9947876 DOI: 10.1186/s43163-023-00396-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Background The impact of excessive screen time with personal listening devices (PLDs) on vision, hearing, balance, and overall health among adults has been reported in the literature. However, its impact on children is not well documented. A survey was undertaken to highlight the possible effects of screen time combined with transducers on vision, hearing, balance, and overall health complaints in children via parental proxy. This cross-sectional survey consisted of questions divided into four domains: vision, hearing, balance, and overall health. It was conducted online using social media to avail total maximum responses. Results A total of 136 responses were obtained from the parents of children studying from grade 1 to 8 through the survey conducted in south India. Increased negative impact on vision was observed in more than 50% of children. Similarly, the hearing and balance domain reported 16% ear pain, 4.4% tinnitus, 9.6% dizziness, 8.8% nausea, and 2.2% imbalance while walking. Likewise, the overall stress domain reported 26.5% general body discomfort, 37.5% neck pain and stiffness, 29.4% headaches, 43.4% lack of concentration, 39.7% overall changes in child’s health and 46.3% behavioral issues with various severity markings (slight to severe). Conclusions Longer periods of screen exposure have various negative impacts on vision, hearing, balance system, and overall health. These effects have to be managed for the health of our children. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43163-023-00396-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teja Deepak Dessai
- grid.411639.80000 0001 0571 5193Bangalore Speech and Hearing Research Foundation, Bangalore-Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Surakshya Sigdel
- grid.507416.10000 0004 1755 7921Dr. S. R. Chandrasekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore, India
| | - Thakendra Chand
- grid.507416.10000 0004 1755 7921Dr. S. R. Chandrasekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore, India
| | - Rashmi J. Bhat
- grid.411639.80000 0001 0571 5193Bangalore Speech and Hearing Research Foundation, Bangalore-Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India ,grid.507416.10000 0004 1755 7921Dr. S. R. Chandrasekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore, India
| | - Kaushlendra Kumar
- grid.411639.80000 0001 0571 5193Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|