Incidence of self-reported reduced productivity owing to musculoskeletal symptoms: association with workplace and individual factors among computer users.
The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence and identify possible risk factors for self-reported reduced productivity owing to musculoskeletal symptoms among computer users.


METHODS
a cohort study with a baseline questionnaire and monthly follow ups during 10 months.


METHODS
the study base consisted of 1,283 computer users, 636 men and 896 women. Ergonomists observed workstation characteristics before entering the cohort. Cases were defined as subjects reporting reduced productivity or reporting being on sick leave owing to musculoskeletal symptoms.


RESULTS
women had approximately two times the incidence of self-reported reduced productivity owing to symptoms in the neck, shoulder and in the forearm/hand than men. There was no difference in gender for the incidence of self-reported reduced productivity owing to back symptoms. Working overtime and job demands were risk factors for self-reported reduced productivity owing to neck and back symptoms. Physical exercise fewer than 8 times the last month was a risk factor for self-reported reduced productivity owing to neck, shoulder and forearm/hand symptoms. Computer mouse use for more than 0.5 h/day was a risk factor for self-reported reduced productivity owing to shoulder and forearm/hand symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
risk factors for self-reported reduced productivity owing to musculoskeletal symptoms included life style factors, such as overweight and low physical exercise, occupational factors, such as overtime, job demands and computer mouse operating time.
Hagberg
M
M
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and Academy at Göteborg University UGOT, Göteborg, Sweden. mats.hagberg@amm.gu.se
Vilhemsson
R
R
Tornqvist
E Wigaeus
EW
Toomingas
A
A
D000328:Adult; D016287:Computer Peripherals; D003201:Computers; D004526:Efficiency; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D009141:Musculoskeletal System / Q000293:injuries*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013548:Sweden / Q000453:epidemiology; D017132:Workplace