scholarly journals Child Labor and Musculoskeletal Disorders: The Pelotas (Brazil) Epidemiological Survey

2005 ◽  
Vol 120 (6) ◽  
pp. 665-673 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa ◽  
Luiz Augusto Facchini ◽  
Marinel Mór Dall'Agnol ◽  
David C. Christiani

Objectives. This article describes the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in several anatomic sites in children and teens, and investigates, while adjusting for potential confounders, the association between musculoskeletal pain and back pain and the following: age, gender, sports practice, use of computer/video games/television, school attendance, intensity of involvement in household domestic activities, care of other children, care of sick/elderly family members, work activities, and workloads. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study interviewing 3,269 children aged 10–17 years in the low-income areas of Pelotas, Brazil. Results. The prevalence of pain in the neck, knee, wrist or hands, and upper back exceeded 15%. Workers in manufacturing had a significantly increased risk for musculoskeletal pain (prevalence ratio [PR]=1.31) and for back pain (PR=1.69), while workers in domestic service had 17% more musculoskeletal pain and 23% more back pain than nonworkers. Awkward posture (PR=1.15) and heavy physical work (PR=1.07) were associated with musculoskeletal pain, while monotonous work (PR=1.34), awkward posture (PR=1.31), and noise (PR=1.25) were associated with back pain. Conclusions. Musculoskeletal pain is common among working children and teens. Knowledge of occupational risk factors can support actions to restructure work conditions to reduce or eliminate childhood exposure to hazardous conditions. Our results suggest that strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in child workers should be developed.

2021 ◽  
pp. 81-88
Author(s):  
Y. N. Maksimov ◽  
D. Kh. Khaibullina

Back and neck pain is widespread in the population. Preferably, patients of working age are sick, which leads to serious economic losses. The transition of pain from acute to chronic increases financial costs, so effective treatment of back pain is an important medical, social and economic problem. Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) prevails among all types of back pain. The source of the MSP can be various structures of the musculoskeletal system: bones, joints, muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, intervertebral discs. The provoking factors for the development of the MSP are static and dynamic overloads arising from physical work, long stay in a fixed posture, unprepared movements, hypothermia, vibrations. The leading diagnostic method for the MSP is a physical research of a patient which includes a detailed collection of complaints and anamnesis, inspection in statics and dynamics, carrying out global and special tests, neuroorthopedic and neurological research. In most cases, the analysis of the results obtained allows you to set a clinical diagnosis without appointing additional research methods. Two cases of acute MSP with different localization, clinical manifestations and flow are offered to the discussion. In the first case, the process was localized in the muscles of the law back. In the second patient, the muscular tonic syndrome developed in the muscles of the neck and shoulder belt and was supported by functional blockades of the vertebral motor segments. For the treatment of both patients, NSAID, muscle relaxant, glucocorticoid, as well as non-drug therapy methods were used. For local injection therapy, a drug group of glucocorticoids was used, having a sodium phosphate and betamethazone dipropionate as part of the sodium betamethasone. The combination of two betamethazone salts provides both the rapid and prolonged effect of the drug, which makes it reasonable to use it with acute musculoskeletal pain.


2004 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 55-61
Author(s):  
K Engquist ◽  
P Ørbaek ◽  
K Jakobsson

We studied the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and its impact on performance in orchestra musicians and in a reference group of actors, who share the mental stress in a performance situation, but without having the physical work load from an instrument. Swedish musicians (n = 103) from symphony and chamber orchestras and actors (n = 106) participated in a cross-sectional questionnaire study. Musculoskeletal pain was assessed by a further developed Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. The impact of pain on performance (pain affecting playing capacity, decreased playing time, and change of technique) and trouble-related sick leave also was assessed. Pain intensity was assessed by visual analogue scales. Musculoskeletal pain in the neck and shoulders was the most frequently reported problem, with similar prevalence among musicians and actors, around 25% for present pain and 20% for chronic pain (1-year prevalence). Around 10% of the musicians and 5% of the actors reported pain in the hands. Oral pain was reported by 12% of the musicians and 18% of the actors. The number of affected body regions and the intensity of pain were similar in the study groups. The musicians had an increased risk for pain affecting playing capacity. For the neck, the prevalence odds ratio (POR) was 3.0 (95%CI 1.2-7.2; adjusted for age and gender). String instrumentalists had higher risk estimates than nonstring instrumentalists. A gender difference was not observed. Pain in the oral region affecting playing capacity was less common in musicians, with a prevalence odds ratio of 0.4 (95%CI 0.1-0.8). Even though the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was similar in the two groups of performing artists, the consequences for the work situation were more serious among musicians.


2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 131-137 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Bayattork ◽  
Markus D. Jakobsen ◽  
Emil Sundstrup ◽  
Foad Seidi ◽  
Hans Bay ◽  
...  

Abstract Background and aims Musculoskeletal pain may negatively affect work ability, especially when work demands are high and/or physical capacity of the worker is low. This study investigated the association between intensity of musculoskeletal pain in multiple body regions and work ability among young and old workers with sedentary and physical demanding jobs. Methods Currently employed wage earners (n=10,427) replied to questions about pain intensity, work ability, and physical work demands. The odds ratio (OR) for having a lower level of work ability in relation to the physical demands at work were modeled using logistic regression controlled for various confounders. Results The OR for lower work ability increased with higher pain intensity in all regions among workers with sedentary and physical work. The same pattern was observed among workers <50 years and ≥50 years in both work types. The association was quite consistent across age and work activity groups, although it tended to be more pronounced among those with physically demanding work in some of pain regions. Conclusions This study shows that increasing pain intensity in multiple sites of the body is associated with lower work ability. This was seen for both younger and older workers as well as those with sedentary and physical work. Implications Physical workers with multiple-site pain may especially be at increased risk of the consequences of reduced work ability. Therefore, extra attention is needed and this group may benefit from better targeted preventive measures.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Pedro Zitko ◽  
Norberto Bilbeny ◽  
Carlos Balmaceda ◽  
Tomas Abbott ◽  
Cesar Carcamo ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal disorders are a leading cause of disability adjusted life years (DALY) in the world. We aim to describe the prevalence and to compare the DALYs and loss of health state utilities (LHSU) attributable to common musculoskeletal disorders in Chile. Methods We used data from the Chilean National Health Survey carried out in 2016–2017. Six musculoskeletal disorders were detected through the COPCOPRD questionnaire: chronic musculoskeletal pain, chronic low back pain, chronic shoulder pain, osteoarthritis of hip and knee, and fibromyalgia. We calculated the DALY for each disorder for 18 sex and age strata, and LHSU following an individual and population level approaches. We also calculated the fraction of LHSU attributable to pain. Results Chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder affects a fifth of the adult population, with a significant difference between sexes. Among specific musculoskeletal disorders highlights chronic low back pain with the highest prevalence. Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant cause of LHSU at the individual level, especially in the case of fibromyalgia. Chronic musculoskeletal pain caused 503,919 [283,940 - 815,132] DALYs in 2017, and roughly two hundred thousand LSHU at population level, which represents 9.7% [8.8–10.6] of the total LSHU occurred in that year. Discrepancy in the burden of musculoskeletal disorders was observed according to DALY or LSHU estimation. The pain and discomfort domain of LHSU accounted for around half of total LHSU in people with musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a major source of burden and LHSU. Fibromyalgia should deserve more attention in future studies. Using the attributable fraction offers a straightforward and flexible way to explore the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bang Van Nguyen ◽  
Thuy Tran ◽  
Ngan Thi Hoang ◽  
Bich Ngoc Nguyen ◽  
Quynh Thuy` Nguyen

Abstract Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among waste collectors in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors of persistent musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors in Hanoi, Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized to study 331 waste collectors in 2017. The Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire and questionnaires on demographic and work conditions were used to collect data. Descriptive and Linear regression analyses were applied at the significant level p<0.05. Findings: Results showed that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors participating into this study was high (100%), multiple-site musculoskeletal disorders (at least two sites) were reported by 81%. Lower back was the most affected site, followed by pain in the neck and shoulders. The risk of persistent musculoskeletal disorders were higher among female workers, workers with the neck bent at an angle of 450, kneeling, repetitive medial rotation while walking, and feeling dissatisfaction with work, stress or anxiety during one week before the survey. Conclusions: High prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was observed among participated waste collectors and it associated with self-assessed unfavorable work postures and psychological stress at work. The findings imply the need of mechanical and social support at work for waste collectors to prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders.


2000 ◽  
Vol 44 (30) ◽  
pp. 5-591-5-594
Author(s):  
Barbara S. Webster ◽  
Stover H. Snook ◽  
Raymond W. McGorry

Previous studies have indicated an increased risk of low back pain when bending forward in the early morning, because of increased fluid in the intervertebral discs. This randomized controlled, partial crossover study tested the hypothesis that control of early morning lumbar flexion will significantly reduce chronic, non-specific low back pain. Diaries were used to record daily levels of pain intensity, disability, impairment, and medication usage. Significant reductions in pain intensity (p<0.01) were recorded for the treatment group, but not for the control group. After receiving the experimental treatment, the control group responded with similar reductions (p<0.05). The only subjects who did not benefit as well were those who performed heavy physical work; with a statistically significant lower reduction in mean pain intensity from those with light to moderate work (p<0.05). It was concluded that controlling lumbar flexion in the early morning has the potential for reducing chronic, non-specific low back pain. The poorer results found for subjects with heavy physical work requirements emphasize the ergonomic implications of this study.


2013 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vegard Johansen

Aims: This paper examines the level of long-term sickness absence (LTSA) in Norway and Sweden. It also investigates whether risk factors of LTSA are the same in Norway and Sweden. Methods: More than 2500 Norwegian and Swedish workers between 20 and 60 years of age answered a postal questionnaire. The Norwegian and Swedish samples are weighted and representative with regard to regional background variables and demographic background variables, but the response rate was low. LTSA is defined as 15 days or more sickness absence in the previous year. Binary logistic regression is used to detect which factors influence LTSA. The analyses of LTSA include demographic factors, socio-economic position, and occupational characteristics. Results: Nineteen per cent of respondents in Norway and 11 per cent of respondents in Sweden experienced LTSA in the previous year. Many respondents from Sweden report mental problems and many Norwegian respondents report pain in back, neck, knuckles, and muscles. Income level is the most important predictor of LTSA in both countries. The direct impacts of gender, age, and physical work conditions are stronger in Norway than Sweden.Discussion: In accordance with official statistics and previous studies, the proportion of Norwegian respondents with LTSA is much higher than the proportion of Swedish respondents. The different levels of LTSA could be linked to differences in social policy. In line with previous studies, respondents with low income are overrepresented with LTSA, and gender, age, and physical work also matter. In contrast to previous studies, there is not any evidence of higher levels of LTSA among non-western immigrants, people with less education, and non-managers. These results reflect the control for ‘income level’, but they could also be related to limits with the survey (non-response, response bias, etc.).


BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. e043520
Author(s):  
Jonas Vinstrup ◽  
Emil Sundstrup ◽  
Lars L Andersen

IntroductionMaintaining good health with advancing age is increasingly important as most European countries experience an increase in retirement age. In order to decrease the risk of premature departure from the workforce, identifying groups at increased risk of musculoskeletal pain and psychosocial stress is essential in designing workplace policies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between occupational groups differing in terms of physical demands and skill requirement, and the outcomes of stress and pain.MethodsThis cross-sectional study reports associations of nine different occupational groups with stress and pain among 11 474 senior workers; stratified by occupational group and based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO). A large-scale questionnaire survey was dispatched to Danish workers; drawn as a probability sample and merged with national registers. Representative estimates were produced using logistic regression controlling for various confounders, combined with model-assisted weights.ResultsThe prevalence of daily pain and high stress among occupational groups ranged between 20.0%–50.5% and 3.9%–10.0%, respectively. Compared with occupations characterised by being mostly sedentary (ISCO group 1–4), those with primarily physical demanding work (ISCO group 5–9) had higher odds of daily pain (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.70) and a tendency towards higher stress scores (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.46). Lastly, female workers experience increased odds of daily pain (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.66) and high stress (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.29 to 1.89) compared with male workers.ConclusionsOccupational settings characterised by mainly physical work and low skill requirements are more likely to experience daily pain compared with those entailing mainly sedentary work. Likewise, in this sample of senior workers, women are more likely to experience pain and stress. These results highlights the need for improving occupation-specific and sex-specific guidelines in the prevention of musculoskeletal pain and psychological stress in workplaces.Trial registration numberClinicalTrials identifier: NCT03634410


Author(s):  
Woyram Abla Kofi- Bediako ◽  
Gideon Sama ◽  
Cosmos Yarfi ◽  
Delali Ed-Bansah ◽  
Augustine Appah Acquah

Nurses are at an increased risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) especially in developing countries, where the use of assistive technology to minimize the adverse effects of manual handling and poor patient lifting are lacking. A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate the prevalence of WRMSDs among nurses at the Ho Teaching Hospital in Ghana using the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. Results indicated a 94% prevalence of WRMSDs, with a significantly higher (p=0.031) prevalence in females (97%) than males (87%). Age and working hours were significantly associated with MSDs (p=0.048, p=0.001, respectively). The most prevalent WRMSDs by body region were low back pain (73.3%), upper back pain (55.7%), ankle/feet pain (55.0%), and neck pain (35.5%). A high prevalence of WRMSDs exist among nurses at the Ho Teaching Hospital. A detailed assessment of ergonomic exposures among nurses in Ho is warranted to better understand the causes of WRMSDs among this population.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pedro Zitko ◽  
Norberto Bilbeny ◽  
Carlos Balmaceda ◽  
Tomas Abbott ◽  
Cesar Carcamo ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are a leading cause of disability adjusted life years (DALY) in the world. In addition to DALY, other approaches such as the attributable fraction have been proposed to estimate the burden of diseases. We aim to describe the prevalence and to compare the DALYs and loss of health state utilities (LHSU) attributable to common musculoskeletal disorders in Chile.Methods: We used data from the Chilean National Health Survey carried out in 2016-2017. Six musculoskeletal disorder were detected through the COPCOPRD questionnaire: chronic musculoskeletal pain, chronic low back pain, chronic shoulder pain, osteoarthritis of hip and knee, and fibromyalgia. We calculated the DALY for each disorder for 18 sex and age strata, and LHSU at individual and population level. We also calculated the fraction of LHSU attributable to pain.Results: Chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder affects a fifth of the adult population, with a significant difference between sexes. Among specific musculoskeletal disorders highlights chronic low back pain with the highest prevalence. Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant cause of LHSU at the individual level, especially in the case of fibromyalgia. Chronic musculoskeletal pain caused 503,919 [283,940 - 815,132] DALYs in 2017, and roughly two hundred thousand LSHU at population level, which represents 9.7% [8.8 - 10.6] of the total LSHU occurred in that year. Discrepancy in the burden of musculoskeletal disorders was observed according to DALY or LSHU estimation. The pain and discomfort domain of LHSU accounted for around half of total LHSU in people with musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: chronic musculoskeletal pain is a major source of burden and LHSU. Fibromyalgia should deserve more attention in future studies. Using the attributable fraction offers a straightforward and flexible way to explore the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.


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