Frequency and risk factors associated with musculoskeletal discomfort among prolonged standing workers at the University

Abstract

Background: Due to the mobility of the legs and the high degree of freedom, standing can be regarded as a diverse position. Workplace musculoskeletal discomforts (MSDs) can have serious consequences for both the affected employees and their companies. From a personal standpoint, MSDs can cause pain, discomfort, and functional restrictions, which can impair a worker's capacity to effectively carry out their job duties.

Objective: To assess frequency of musculoskeletal discomfort and to evaluate the risk factors related to musculoskeletal discomfort, e.g. age, sex, body mass index (BMI), marital status, number of children, shoe preferences, profession, working experience, and standing hours.

Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted by administering a pre-designed questionnaire to two hundred and fifty-four prolonged standing workers (security guards n = 109, sweepers n = 80, messengers n = 37, and chefs n = 28) selected from The University of Lahore. The outcome variable, Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD), was evaluated using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ), which categorized MSD scores into three levels of discomfort: mild, moderate, and severe. The data collected were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.

Results: MSD was most common in the foot 42.2%, lower legs 29.1%, lower back 11.4%, and hip 10.0%, according to the CMDQ tool. More than half (51.9%) of the participants reported no musculoskeletal discomfort, while the remaining participants reported varying levels of discomfort. The prevalence of discomfort was 25.5% mild, 11.9% moderate, and 10.7% severe. Gender, occupation, age, standing hours, daily working hours, weekly working hours, and shoe preference were directly associated with MSDs. Logistic regression analysis revealed that gender, age, profession, and break time were significant predictors of WRMSDs in workers. Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among prolonged standing workers, with lower back and foot pain being the most common complaints. Male workers, older workers, and those with less frequent breaks were more likely to experience MSDs. Implementing regular breaks and ergonomic training may help reduce the risk of MSDs among prolonged standing workers.