WORK RELATED ERGONOMIC MODIFICATIONS ADOPTIONS AMONG PHYSIOTHERAPISTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

This paper introduces the parallel machine scheduling problems with work related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) risk considerations. By the WMSD consideration, we mean that job processing times are an increasing function of occupational repetitive technical actions (OCRA) risk factor. The OCRA index was recruited for risk assessment of occupational repetitive technical actions. WMSD risks were modeled with cumulative mean value of OCRA index. Due to NP-Hard structure of parallel machine scheduling problems with WMSD considerations and learning rate, the solution cannot be found always. However, problem can be solved by transforming assignment problem. In spite of the fact that the computational effort remains O (n 4 ), problem is solved within more efficient time. In this study, a model that includes learning effect and WMSD risk was proposed. WMSD risk was considered as cumulative mean of risk value throughout shift. In order to the balance between productivity and WMSD risk, jobs’ foreseeable cycle time (FCT) value was changed. It is aimed to decrease mean of risk along schedule without increasing total basic process time. The value of sacrifice from the FCT was compensating from job which have optimal, acceptable, borderline or slight risk level. Process time and risk values were recalculated by using new FCT value. Thus, balanced process times and risk values obtained. Proposed model was solved with Lingo software and sequence of jobs was obtained. Total flow time and mean of risk were compared for balanced and none balanced schedules. Total flow time and mean of risk belong to balanced schedule is smaller than none balanced schedule. It was shown that handled problem is solvable at the polynomial time and total flow time can be improved by bringing balance between WMSD risks and productivity.

Background: Modern defence system has a significant role of electrical, electronic and instrument technicians in armed forces. Despite their intensive role, little is known about work-related musculoskeletal disorder in these technicians.
 Objective: To investigate the prevalence of the work-related musculoskeletal disorder in defence personnel involved in electrical and electronic maintenance and repairs.
 Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out for 3 years, in Electrical, telecom and instrument defence technicians (N = 164). Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorder was assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Effect of age, working hours, work experience, Basal metabolic index and type of job on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorder was investigated using logistic regression analysis.
 Results: A total of 119 (72.56%) respondents reported work-related musculoskeletal disorder with 53.04% multiples & 19.51% single work-related musculoskeletal disorder. Simultaneous presence of neck, shoulder and upper back work-related musculoskeletal disorder were observed. Highest rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorder was in neck (44.44%), followed by shoulder (27.16%), ankle/ foot (14.81%), elbow/ forearm (12.96%), low back (11.72%) and wrist/ finger (9.87%). Neck (44%) related work-related musculoskeletal disorder were highest across all job crafts. Work experience (p = 0.012; OR = 0.87; 95% CI – 0.78- 0.97), working hours (p = 0.031; OR= 1.73, 95% CI – 0.58-5.12) smoking (p = 0.00 ; OR = 5.3, 95 % CI = 4.3 – 8.48) and job crafts like electrician (p = 0.434; OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.08-3.31) and telecom mechanics (p = 0.026; OR = 1.26, 95% CI =0.74 – 2.15) were significantly associated as risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorder.
 Conclusion: High prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorder was observed in electrical, telecommunication & instrument mechanics, with higher multiple work-related musculoskeletal disorder. Working hours, work experience, job craft and smoking were highly associated with a work-related musculoskeletal disorder. We suggest suitable ergonomic intervention and awareness program along with smoking control drive to reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorder.

Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of patient transfer assistive devices in reducing the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among nurses. Methods. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched to identify studies with a quantitative assessment of the efficacy of patient transfer assistive devices on the incidence and injury claims of WMSDs as compared to the manual lifting of patients. A health impact analysis of the pre–post intervention of assistive device implementation was performed. The percentage of the reduction of forces, incidence of WMSDs, number of missed workdays and injury compensation claims were calculated, pooled and presented as boxplots. Results. A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. The best post-intervention outcomes of assistive devices deployment in the healthcare setting included a reduction in WMSD incidence by 59.8%, missed workdays by 90.0% and workers’ compensation claims by 95.0%. Additionally, hand force declined by 71% (p < 0.05) and 70% (p < 0.05) with the use of air-assisted devices and ceiling lifts respectively. Conclusions. Overall, the evidence suggests that patient transfer assistive devices, notably ceiling lifts and air-assisted devices, are effective in reducing the risk of WMSDs among nurses.

Certain characteristics of the work settings of the local method of gari frying have potential for harm which must be identified to prevent or reduce these harms. The sitting posture is one of such characteristics. In this paper, the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the stirring task of gari-frying was assessed. This assessment covered two different sitting postures i.e. “sitting in front” and “sitting sideways” postures. A preliminary assessment was carried out using questionnaire and oral interview. Further assessment was done with a Quick Exposure Check (QEC). Gari frying in the location under study was dominated by women above 40 years while, the “sitting sideways” posture was mostly used. Most of the workers complained of discomfort at their shoulder/arm and back regions but, workers who take the “sitting sideways” posture complained of pains at their neck region. Discomfort in the wrist/hand region was the additional complain of workers who adopted the “sitting in front” posture. For the “sitting sideways” posture, QEC assessment revealed that the back, wrist/arm and neck regions were at a high risk of WMSDs, while for the “sitting in front” posture, only the neck region had a high risk of WMSDs. This paper reveals that the stirring task of the gari frying process is very tedious and has a risk of WMSDs that varies to different degrees depending on the sitting posture adopted

INTRODUCTION Athletic trainers often work for elongated and irregular hours or days, and need to react in emergency situations. These professionals are at risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study investigated the WMSDs experienced by athletic trainers (ATs), plus related personal and occupational factors. METHODS A customized questionnaire with subject's demographic and WMSDs information was constructed and administered in all accessible ATs in Taiwan. In addition to descriptive analysis of demographics and WMSDs, the relationship between personal/occupational-related factors and WMSD symptoms were also evaluated. Results A total of 146 effective questionnaires were returned. The results indicated that a 48.5% prevalence rate of athletic trainers in Taiwan, and these disorders are mainly located in low back (42%), finger (38%) and shoulder (26%) regions. Logistic regression revealed that average work hour (odds ratio (OR) = 1.834, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.066-3.156) and continue education participation (OR = 0.346, 95% CI: 0.140-0.854) were the most significant predictors for WMSDs occurrence. Performing taping was the most significant predictor for the low back (OR = 28.274, 95% CI: 2.568-311.423) and finger (OR = 19.535, 95% CI:2.273-167.912) symptoms; while performing providing first aid (OR = 12.128, 95% CI:3.881-37.899) was the most significant predictor for the shoulder's. Conclusion This study revealed that athletic trainers in Taiwan area suffered from high rate of WMSDs, and the relationship between WMSDs and specific job features were reported. Preventive and therapeutic modifications of the work environment to decrease the occurrence of WMSDs are in need for athletic trainers and other similar professions. Further research examining safe patient handling ergonomics, proper equipment in the context of athletic training and professional development strategies must be pursued.

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are a major occupational health issue that severely impacts quality of life through chronic pain and mobility limitations among grocery store workers and shopkeepers. Aim: To assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and risk factor assessment among shopkeepers in rural area. Study Setting: Rural area in India Study Design: Cross-sectional Methods and Materials: Total 165 participants were screened out of which 122 were satisfying the inclusion criteria, out of which 16 were not willing to participate, 6 participants failed to fill out the provided questionnaire hence data for 100 participants was procured and 43 participants did not meet the requirements for inclusion criteria hence excluded. Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (Marathi) was used to evaluate Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders. The REBA scale was utilized to assess risk factors. Statistical Analysis: The analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. Microsoft Excel was utilized to compute the mean, standard deviations, and percentages. The data was then displayed in both tabular and graphical formats. Results: In terms of area-specific afflictions, the highest incidence of musculoskeletal disorders was observed in the lower back (76%) and the knee (40%). This was followed by the upper back, which showed a 30% incidence rate. The other joints were affected thereafter. The REBA scale indicated a score of 11, suggesting a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This underscores the need for implementing changes to mitigate this risk. Conclusion: The study concludes that work-related musculoskeletal disorders are notably prevalent among rural shopkeepers. The findings underscore the necessity for implementing changes to address this issue. Keywords: Shopkeepers, Work related musculoskeletal disorders, Ergonomics, Cross sectional study.

Mining is often associated with the risk of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs). Despite being a coal-rich country, Pakistan’s mining sector stays behind in terms of occupational health and safety. Only a few research studies have been conducted on ergonomics in the mining industry. The current study aimed at evaluating workstations for WRMSDs and ergonomic factors among coal mine workers. Survey data were gathered from a total of 103 workers using a structured questionnaire. Information on the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders was obtained using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. The questions about ergonomics awareness, workstation, environment, demands, and risks were based on the available literature studies. The association between the incidence of WRMSDs and age was explored using chi-square analysis. The results showed a high rate of uneducated workers with a lack of ergonomics awareness. Back, shoulders, and legs were the most vulnerable body areas to WRMSDs. A significant association between workers’ age and WRMSDs was found. The workers’ opinion towards workstation was at a very low level. The current work conditions were found to have risks of potential hazards and economic losses. Ergonomic interventions are suggested to be developed and implemented to improve workplace conditions.

Background: Three-wheelers are a vital mode of transport in Chandigarh, with approximately 7,440 drivers facing occupational health risks including prolonged sitting and poor ergonomics. A significant, under-observed factor is passenger overloading, which alters vehicle balance and compels drivers to adopt strained or unnatural postures. Over time, these postural deviations may increase the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), particularly in the back and neck. Aims &amp; Objectives: This study aims to investigate the association between habitual postural changes induced by passenger overloading of driving seat only and the prevalence of WMSDs among three-wheeler drivers in Chandigarh. To determine the prevalence and location of WMSDs among the study population using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. To assess and categorize the drivers' work habits and specific spinal posture changes associated with varying passenger loads using a standardized observation checklist and interview. To identify the socio-demographic, work duration, and overloading factors correlated with the incidence of WMSDs. Methodology: A cross-sectional study is being conducted among approximately 200 auto-rickshaw drivers in Chandigarh using convenience sampling. WMSD prevalence is assessed via the internationally validated Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), while the primary exposure—passenger overloading (defined as habitually carrying &gt;3 passengers)—is assessed via self-report. Results &amp; Conclusion: Data collection and analysis are currently underway as part of an ongoing dissertation. Findings are expected to inform targeted ergonomic interventions and relevant public health policies for this occupational group to mitigate the specific postural deviations, such as hunched back or twisted spine, hypothesized to correlate with higher incidences of low back and neck pain.

Field measurement of hand forces of palm oil harvesters and evaluating the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) through biomechanical analysis

IntroductionNon traumatic work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) represent an enormous burden of preventable illness. Two strategies and data sources to document this burden and identify workers at highest risk were compared.ObjectivesTo...

Abstract: CONTEXT: Ergonomics means laws of work. The jewelry die makers are mold makers with the job demand of attaining sustained static posture with inconsistent time duration and repetitive work. Thus, they are more prone to develop musculoskeletal disorders. Rapid entire body assessment (REBA) is a widely used tool for ergonomic assessment of workplace postures. This study used the REBA scale to evaluate postures and identify potential ergonomic risks associated with postures and movements. Analysis of work posture will help to identify areas for improvement in the work environment. AIMS: The aim of the study was to assess the risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders in jewelry die makers. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted at Chinchani village, Palghar district. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Two hundred and nine adult males between the age group of 18 and 60 years who had completed a training period of 6 months and working as jewelry die makers in a home-based setting were included, and their working postures were assessed using the REBA scale. Jewelry die makers already diagnosed with musculoskeletal or neurological conditions or part-time workers and those using computers for their jobs were excluded from the study. Demographic data and additional work-related information were collected using a self-made questionnaire by interview method. Two subject experts validated the self-made questionnaire before its application. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The components of the self-made questionnaire, such as work posture, total hours of sustaining work posture, number of breaks during work hours, and areas of discomfort while sustaining work posture, were analyzed. Detailed neck, trunk and leg analysis, arm and wrist analysis were interpreted using the scoring method of the REBA Employee Assessment Worksheet. RESULTS: According to the REBA score, 163 of 209 participants fall under medium-risk work posture, 38 fall under high-risk work posture, but unexpectedly, 53% reported no discomfort, which indicates that many of them are unaware of their faulty work posture. Only 8 participants indicate low-risk work posture. CONCLUSIONS: The study concludes that few jewelry die makers are at high risk and require immediate medical attention and intervention, whereas the majority are at medium risk. This suggests the necessity of investigation and action for a change in work posture when assessed using the REBA scale. A rare number of participants are at low risk.

Objectives: To find out the percentage of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) among nurses and to perform a risk assessment of low back pain using the MAPO index in a tertiary care hospital. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 25 full-time nurses, working in a tertiary care hospital. Self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort was identified using a 25 item questionnaire which included the Nordik Questionnaire. The investigators administered the Movement and Assistance of Hospital Patients (MAPO) index in order to perform risk assessment of low back pain. Results: Data was summarized using SPSS Version 14. Sixty-eight percent of the nurses reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Higher percentages of WRMSDs were more common among nurses who work with non-cooperative patients (71.42%) and semi-cooperative patients (75%). The major area of discomfort reported during activities of manual handling was the low back (44%). Years of experience among nurses also showed a strong positive correlation with WRMSDs. Risk stratification using MAPO index showed moderate to high risk for WRMSDs in all the hospital wards. Conclusions: Percentage of self-reported WRMSDs among nurses was 68%, which cannot be ignored and has to be addressed. Self-reported pain and discomfort were more prevalent in low back and was related to various factors like age of nurse, years of experience, type of patients handled, patient's assistance during the activity, and the type of ward. Evaluation using MAPO index showed that the nurses were exposed to moderate to high risk for WRMSDs.

Effects of rotation frequency and task order on localised muscle fatigue and performance during repetitive static shoulder exertions

Background: Cardiac sonographers have increased risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) owing to their physically demanding work. Telerehabilitation offers a promising, accessible approach for managing WRMDs; however, evidence specific to this population remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-week telerehabilitation program for musculoskeletal pain, health-related quality of life, and job satisfaction among cardiac sonographers. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, cardiac sonographers with WRMDs were assigned to the telerehabilitation intervention or control group. Pain intensity (measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale), quality of life (assessed using the SF-36), and job satisfaction were evaluated at baseline and post-intervention. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess differences in between-group changes over time. Results: Thirty-two cardiac sonographers completed the study (16 per group; mean age: 28.53 ± 4.31 years; 93.75% female). The intervention group showed significantly reduced pain intensity (β = −2.0; 95% CI: −3.67, −0.33; p = 0.019) and improved job satisfaction (β = 15.93; 95% CI: 3.47–28.40; p = 0.012) compared to controls. SF-36 subscale analysis showed significantly improved bodily pain (BP) in the intervention group (β = 12.81; 95% CI: 1.50–24.12; p = 0.026) and decreased social functioning (SF) (β = −11.72; 95% CI: −20.61, −2.83; p = 0.010); no significant between-group differences were observed for physical functioning, role physical, role emotional, vitality, general health, or mental health. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that telerehabilitation can effectively reduce musculoskeletal pain and enhance job satisfaction among cardiac sonographers. Although BP improved, SF declined. These findings support integrating telerehabilitation into occupational health programs, with future research needed on long-term benefits and psychosocial outcomes.

Increasing evidence suggests that musculoskeletal disorders are common in workers in the United States health care industry. Physical therapists, who commonly treat patients with these disorders, are also at risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMD) in the upper limbs and low back. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of WMD during a 12-month period and the job factors that may be associated with these disorders in physical therapists. A four-page questionnaire was mailed to physical therapists (N = 1,160) who attended The University of Iowa between 1943 and 1993. Nine hundred twenty-eight questionnaires were returned (80% response rate) from physical therapists in 46 states. Based on a literature review and pilot study of physical therapists, a survey instrument was constructed consisting of a symptom survey, a job-factor survey, and various demographic information. The highest prevalences of WMD among physical therapists were in the following anatomical areas: low back (45%), wrist/hand (29.6%), upper back (28.7%), and neck (24.7%). The job factor rated most likely to contribute to job-related musculoskeletal disorders was "lifting or transferring dependent patients." The prevalence of WMD in physical therapists also was affected by work setting, practice specialty, age of patient, and gender of therapist. Specific strategies should be developed to reduce WMD in the practice of physical therapy.