Measuring static muscular strength among female operatives: a cross-sectional comparison in different handicraft occupations

Assessment of musculoskeletal disorders among bus drivers in South India: implications for health and safety

Objectives. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and associated impairments among bus drivers in South India. The main research question is to determine the prevalence and distribution of MSDs among bus drivers and assess the impact of these disorders on their daily activities and functioning. Methods. A supervised cross-sectional study was conducted involving 390 qualified bus drivers. MSDs were assessed using a standardized Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, and impairments resulting from MSDs were measured using various assessment techniques. Results. The study found that 65.8% of the drivers self-reported experiencing MSDs, with the highest prevalence in the lower back, followed by the neck and upper back regions. Prevalence was relatively low in the elbow and wrist regions. MSDs were most prevalent in the neck, shoulder, upper back and lower back regions for individuals aged 29-39 years and over 40 years. The study also revealed that MSDs significantly affect daily activities, particularly in the lower and upper back regions. Disability index scores indicated that many drivers experienced mild to moderate disabilities. Conclusion. The findings underscore the necessity for appropriate healthcare and rehabilitation programs to prevent and manage MSDs among bus drivers.

Interactions between work-related factors, perceived fatigue and musculoskeletal disorders among handicraft artisans: structural equation model analysis

The cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between work-related factors, perceived work fatigue (PWF) and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among handicraft artisans. 364 artisans participated in a questionnaire survey, and a structural equation model (SEM) was developed to explore the direct and indirect relationships between these factors using partial least squares analysis. The SEM explained 98.2% of the variance in MSDs and revealed that exposure to biomechanical factors had a direct impact on PWF and MSDs, with PWF mediating the effect of biomechanical factors on MSDs. Additionally, job demand was found to be positively associated with MSDs, while job control and social support reduced the risk of MSDs. The findings underscore the importance of strategic initiatives to mitigate the risk of developing MSDs among artisans. The study also highlights the potential of SEM as a novel framework for understanding the complex pathogenesis of MSDs in occupational health research.Practitioner summary: The study sought to comprehensively examine the intricate relationships among work-related factors, PWF, and MSDs. To achieve this, an SEM approach was employed to capture both direct and indirect relationships between these factors, employing partial least squares analysis. Findings revealed SEM as an innovative framework for understanding the intricate development of MSDs.