title: Musculoskeletal symptoms in workers.
abstract: Self-report measures of musculoskeletal discomfort are a widely used and generally accepted risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders in epidemiologic research. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in packing workers. A cross-sectional study of 75 workers was carried out using a modified Nordic questionnaire. Prevalence was determined with the percentage of positive responses to questions on musculoskeletal symptoms. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were the measures of association between prevalent musculoskeletal symptoms and demographic factors; they were determined with logistic regression. Most musculoskeletal symptoms in workers were from the low back (44.0%), shoulders (33.3%) and neck (32.0%). Years worked were strongly significantly associated with musculoskeletal symptoms and pain in the neck, shoulders and wrists/hands, P < .001-.050. Hazards related to repetitive movements and discomfort postures could be reduced with stretching exercises, rotation schedules and through new engineering solutions.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Health Department, School of Public Health, Medical Sciences/University of Tehran, Tehran, IR Iran. ghasemkh@sina.tums.ac.ir
authors.forename: Mehdi
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ghasemkhani
authors.forename: Elham
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Mahmudi
authors.forename: Hossain
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Jabbari
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D009141:Musculoskeletal System / Q000293:injuries*; D016272:Occupational Health; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires