Effects of an eight-week physical exercise program on low back pain and function in fruit workers: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Low back pain is prevalent in workers' health and functional performance.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of a physical exercise program on low back pain and disability in fruit workers.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial assigned 44 workers (37 ± 9 years) to two groups. The experimental group consisted of 10 men and 12 women with an average age of 38 (± 9) years, and the control group consisted of 8 men and 14 women with an average age of 36 (± 10) years. The experimental group (EG) performed a program of strength and flexibility exercises for eight weeks, twice a week. The control group (CG) received minimal care, with a booklet with guidelines for performing exercises. The primary outcomes included changes in perceived disability and the intensity of pain evaluated by the Rolland-Morris questionnaire and the Numerical Pain Scale, respectively. All outcomes were measured at baseline and after eight weeks of intervention.

RESULTS

A significant difference was observed in the within-group analysis, with a mean reduction in pain intensity in the EG and CG of -4.55 (95%CI -7.01 to -2.09) and -3.81 (95%CI 1.72-5.90), respectively. For disability, a reduction of -4.45 (95% CI -8.89 to -0.02) was observed in the EG and of -4.43 (-7.38 to -1.48) in the CG. There were no significant differences in the between-groups analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The exercise program was not superior to using the educational booklet. However, both interventions showed substantial decreases in pain and disability levels.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of a Marathi Version of the Versus Arthritis Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ)

Introduction Musculoskeletal (MSK) well-being plays a crucial role in determining one's quality of life. Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) score is a tool recently developed by the Versus Arthritis group of Oxford University in English to measure MSK health. Marathi is a regional language in western India spoken by more than 100 million people. There is a scarcity of valid and reliable tools to measure MSK health in this language. Hence, we decided to cross-culturally adapt and translate MSK-HQ to Marathi. Method We translated MSK-HQ score to Marathi (MSK-HQ-Ma) as per the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) guidelines. We tested its internal consistency, construct validity and reproducibility. It was compared with other health status scores EQ-5D-5L and overall health using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Test-retest reliability was tested in those subjects who were having stable MSK health after two weeks. Results We recruited 158 consecutive subjects attending musculoskeletal clinics who had Marathi as their native language. Mean age was 44.8±17 years, females were 78 (49%). It showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.95). For construct validity we found a strong correlation between MSK-HQ-Ma and EQ-5D-5L values (Spearman's r = 0.82, p<0.001). There was also a good correlation between MSK-HQ-Ma and overall health by VAS (Spearman's r = 0.76, p<0.001). An excellent test-retest reliability (Spearman's r = 0.94, p<0.001) was seen in 105 subjects who had stable MSK condition after two weeks of first appearance. Conclusion The MSK-HQ-Ma instrument has demonstrated good consistency, reliability and construct validity when evaluating the musculoskeletal health of individuals who can understand the Marathi language. Hence it can be used as a validated tool for the evaluation of musculoskeletal health in western India where Marathi is a commonly used language.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in agriculture: Ergonomics risk assessment and its prevention among Indian farmers

BACKGROUND

Indian farmers have musculoskeletal disorders as agriculture is a physically demanding occupation.

OBJECTIVES

The main aim of this study is to identify ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among different groups of farmers. The other objective is to investigate how MSDs affect farmers' daily lives and interfere with their activities.

METHODS

Farmers were evaluated for the repetitiveness of work and MSDs using the standard Nordic questionnaire, ergonomic assessment tool (REBA), and ART tool.

RESULTS

Low back portions were the most affected body parts, followed by the knees (OR = 0.352; 95% CI = 0.280-0.598), shoulder (OR = 0.657; 95% CI = 0.405-1.066), neck (OR = 0.510; 95% CI = 0.350-0.743), ankle or foot (OR = 0.815; 95% CI = 0.556-1.196), and upper back region (OR = 0.681; 95% CI = 0.463-1.002). The REBA method found that most of the postures in farming are very dangerous. The ART tool showed that most of the activities are repetitive. Working long hours (90%) and monotony at work (87.5%) are the main psychosocial factors, followed by pressure to finish within a given timeframe (71.4%) and injuries related to MSDs.

CONCLUSION

Farmers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders in various body parts (lower back, knee, neck, shoulder, and upper back) due to squatting, stooping, and other constrained working postures during agricultural activities. rolonged working hours, repetitive movements, and MMH are ergonomic risk factors forFurthermore, p MSDs.

The impact of work organisation on the work life of people on pasture-based dairy farms

The seasonal workload combined with increased dairy herd sizes and a declining workforce have created social sustainability challenges for pasture-based dairy farms. Effective work organisation can build productive capacity that may have a positive impact on this scenario. Our objective was to develop a framework to characterise and examine the effect of work organisation on the working situations of the people involved in a sample of 55 pasture-based dairy farms in Ireland. We conceptualised that effective work organisation on a dairy farm could be considered as a system that is efficient from a labour input perspective, resulting in a profitable farming system with outcomes of good operator well-being, health and safety, and quality of life. A literature review established efficiency & productivity, flexibility and standardisation as our three characteristics of work organisation. Using data from an existing labour time-use study completed from the 1st February to 30th June 2019, we aimed to test the veracity of these work organisation characteristics in the Irish pasture-based dairy system. Two proxy indicators were selected to represent each of the three work organisation characteristics, and each of the 55 farms were categorised into quartiles based on their ranking for these six indicators (1 = most effective quartile to 4 = least effective quartile). The most and least effective quartiles of farms for work organisation showed similar levels of farm labour input and labour efficiency. Farmers in the most effective work organisation quartile were working 51.2 h/week from February to June compared with 70.0 h/week for farmers in the least effective quartile, which was attributed to later start times, earlier finish times, and more time at non-farm activity. Farms achieving effective work organisation had a labour-efficient system with relatively low farmer working hours. Extension of the work organisation concept to other farms could improve their labour situation and aid in alleviating some of the key quality of life challenges faced by dairy farmers.

Two paleopathological cases suggestive of paralabral cysts of the shoulder

OBJECTIVE

To undertake differential diagnosis of scapular bone defects found in two medieval skeletons buried in different necropoles of Friuli Venezia Giulia (Italy) and to evaluate the clinical significance of paralabral cysts in the context of shoulder pathology.

MATERIALS

Individual JoT36 is an adult male exhumed from a necropolis belonging to a rural agricultural settlement dated to the 10th to 11th century A.D. Individual CIVT58 is an adult male from a Langobard necropolis dated to 630-670 A.D.

METHODS

Macroscopic examination of the skeletons was performed using standard osteological methods and review of pertinent clinical literature to assist differential diagnosis.

RESULTS

Between the glenoid cavity and the spinoglenoid notch of the right scapula of JoT36 there is a multilocular circular defect adjacent to the glenoid rim. On the neck of the left scapula of CIVT58, immediately above the spinoglenoid notch, there is a unilocular circular depression. In both cases, the cortical bone appears smooth without any evidence of erosion or sclerosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Skeletal findings and historical/archaeological contexts of both cases are compatible with the diagnosis of paralabral cysts.

SIGNIFICANCE

Paralabral cysts are relatively frequently observed in clinical settings but very few examples have been documented in paleopathological literature. This study seeks to improve recognition and interpretation of this pathology in historical/archaeological contexts.

LIMITATIONS

Findings from a case report can neither generate epidemiological information nor be generalized.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH

Identification of new cases may add valuable information about lifestyles and related shoulder pathologies in ancient times.

Evaluation of working conditions, work postures, musculoskeletal disorders and low back pain among sugar production workers

BACKGROUND: It is generally agreed that musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a severe health concern, particularly for agricultural laborers. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to identify risk factors and work-related disorders among agricultural workers at Amirkabir agro-industry company in Iran. METHOD: A total of 158 workers, of which 66 were manual harvesting workers (four postures), 40 were fertilizer transportation workers (three postures), and 52 were spraying workers (one posture), were included in the study. The research used questionnaires to collect data, and the postures were analyzed using 3DSSPP software. Related risk factors such as age, body mass index, work experience, working hours, and sports activity were analyzed. RESULTS: The incidence rate of lower back pain (94%), knee pain (82%), neck pain (69%), upper-back (63%), and shoulder (63%) were calculated. The logistic regression revealed that working hours and sports activities are significantly correlated to the wrist/hand and neck MSD with 5.62 and 6.38 times more likely among manual harvesting workers. The 3DSSPP software estimated that the lower back pain, especially in the first posture, for manure transportation workers was very high. Maximum L5-S1 compression, shear, and moment forces in the first posture among manure transportation workers were 7113 N and 472 N, -381 N-m, respectively. CONCLUSION: The 3DSSPP results also illustrated that compression, shear, and moment forces exceeded the NIOSH limit for the other postures. After interventions, compression, shear, and moment forces among all farm workers decreased. These findings emphasize that farm workers need to be under surveillance continuously at their workstations where interventions and improvement in specific tasks are required.

Health-related quality of life within agriculture in England and Wales: results from a EQ-5D-3L self-report questionnaire

BACKGROUND

Mental and physical health problems among the farming community are well documented but there is limited evidence regarding the overall health status of this population. This paper offers a unique insight into this issue through presenting the findings from a survey instrument, the EQ-5D-3L, which provides a standardised measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

METHODS

We conducted the largest ever survey (n = 15,296) of people living and working in agriculture in England and Wales to gather baseline data on health and wellbeing within this community. The survey included an assessment of HRQOL through the use of the EQ-5D-3L self-report questionnaire. A variety of statistical approaches were used to test for significant associations between HRQOL and sub-group characteristics, including the Chi-square test for independence, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and Mann-Whitney U-test. Binary logistic regression models were also created to assess the influence of a set of respondent characteristics on the likelihood of respondents reporting health problems in the EQ-5D-3L.

RESULTS

24% of respondents reported problems with mobility; 4% reported problems with self-care; 21% reported problems with performing their usual activities; 52% reported problems with pain/discomfort; and 31% reported problems with anxiety/depression. The mean EQ-5D index value was 0.811 (median (Md) 0.796, interquartile range (IQR) 0.275). The mean self-rated health score (EQ-VAS) was 77.6 (SD 16.1) (Md 80.0, IQR 20). In general, holding other respondent characteristics equal, women reported fewer problems with mobility, self-care, performing usual activities and pain/discomfort than men, but more problems with anxiety/depression. HRQOL in the working-aged appears to be poorer among the survey population than the wider UK population.

CONCLUSIONS

Results reveal concerning levels of physical and mental health problems, especially pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression, which appear to be more prevalent within our sample than within the wider UK population. There were important gender and age-related differences in both mental and physical health. Combatting these problems through targeted support is essential for the wellbeing of the farming community and the future sustainability of UK food production.

Work exposures and mental and musculoskeletal symptoms in organic farming

This study focussed on harmful exposures and mental and musculoskeletal symptoms in organic and conventional farming using interview data of Finnish farmers over the winter of 2014-2015. The data consisted of 2,169 full-time farmers, out of whom 231 (11%) practiced organic farming and 1,938 (89%) conventional farming. Exposure to poisonous and irritating substances was less frequent while exposures to vibration and mould ('smell of root cellar') were more frequent on organic farms. Mental and musculoskeletal symptoms were slightly more common among organic farmers, but the associations were not statistically significant in regression modelling. Risk factors for mental symptoms included animal production, hired labour, female gender, constant hurry, working alone, economic uncertainty, and inadequate recovery from workdays. Risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms included older age, female gender, constant hurry, economic uncertainty, difficult working postures, heavy lifting and carrying, and inadequate recovery. Workload and recovery, managing the transition period and better follow-up of the occupational well-being were identified as concerns among organic farmers. Practitioner summary: Converting from conventional to organic farming has become increasingly common. Farmer interviews indicated that exposure to poisonous and irritating substances was less frequent while exposures to vibration and mould were more frequent on organic farms. Mental and musculoskeletal symptoms and risk factors were similar in both types of farming.

Effect of non-surgical interventions on pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue: an exploratory systematic review based on randomized controlled trials

Objective: There are many observational and clinical studies on pain treatment in farmers; however, little is known about the effects of interventions based only on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue (D-MSCT). This review aimed to summarize evidence on the effects of non-surgical interventions for pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with D-MSCT.

Materials and Methods: We searched seven databases, including MEDLINE, and three clinical trial registries, including the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, from inception up to February 15, 2021, to identify studies that included at least one treatment group wherein nonsurgical interventions were applied. We focused on 1) pain relief and symptom improvement and 2) quality of life and improvement in physical fitness.

Results: Four studies (three on low back pain and one on knee osteoarthritis) met all the inclusion criteria. Overall, the risk of bias was high, and meta-analysis could not be performed due to heterogeneity. However, a participatory ergonomic approach, exercise centered on strength training with a transtheoretical model, and/or a combination of both could be included in effective educational programs, at least in the short term, to prevent and/or reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. Based on internal and external validity, we could postulate a future research agenda and a conceptual education model to prevent D-MSCT in farmers.

Conclusion: Participatory ergonomic intervention, exercise centered on strength training, and/or a combination of both could be included for effective educational programs to prevent and reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. High-quality RCTs with a less risk of bias will be implemented for many agricultural work types in various parts worldwide (especially developing countries and regions) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Differences between the Sexes in the Relationship between Chronic Pain, Fatigue, and QuickDASH among Community-Dwelling Elderly People in Japan

Chronic pain and fatigue have negative effects on the health, ADL, work, and hobbies of the elderly. As the proportion of people 65 years of age and older in the population increases, chronic pain and disability research regarding this group is receiving more consideration. However, little empirical evidence of the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and physical disability between the sexes is available. This study investigated the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and instrumental activities of daily living among community-dwelling elderly people by sex in Japan. Concerning the presence of chronic pain, 61% of males and 78% of females reported chronic pain, indicating that many elderly people living in the community suffer from chronic pain and fatigue on a daily basis. The number of sites of chronic pain was higher in females than in males (p = 0.016), with more chronic pain in the knees (p < 0.001) and upper arms (p = 0.014). Regarding chronic pain, males showed a higher correlation with QuickDASH-DS (rs = 0.433, p = 0.017) and QuickDASH-SM (rs = 0.643, p = 0.018) than females. Furthermore, fatigue also showed a higher correlation with QuickDASH-W (rs = 0.531, p = 0.003) in males than in females. These results indicate that the association between chronic pain, fatigue, and QuickDASH differed between the sexes among community-dwelling elderly people in Japan. A better understanding of the risk factors for elderly chronic pain and fatigue among sexes will facilitate the development of elderly healthcare welfare and policies.

Agricultural Risk Factors Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Older Farmers in Pathum Thani Province, Thailand

Background Agriculture is one of the most hazardous jobs in terms of occupational illness, especially musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This paper is a cross-sectional study designed to identify agricultural risk factors related to MSDs among older farmers.Methods A convenience sampling method was used to select 481 older farmers from the Nong Suea district in Pathum Thani province. A three-part questionnaire generated data that included demographics, work conditions, and environment, and self-reported MSDs. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors for MSDs.Results The results indicated the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the past 7 days and 12 months were 87.9% and 88.9%, respectively. The three body parts with highest prevalence rates of MSDs were lower extremities (65.4%), lower back (42.6%), and shoulders (29.9%). Factors significantly associated with reporting MSDs during the past 12 months (p value <.05) were women (adjusted odds ratio = 2.52: 95% CI; 1.19-5.36), using agricultural tools (adjusted odds ratio = 4.40: 95% CI; 1.18-13.79), prolonged static postures (adjusted odds ratio = 3.81: 95% CI; 1.05-13.82), and lifting >10 kg (adjusted odds ratio = 2.87: 95% CI; 1.22-6.82).Conclusions Study results revealed older farmers had high prevalence of MSDs and various related risk factors. Occupational ergonomic issues for promoting safety awareness of agricultural risk factors among elderly farmers should be considered.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Arabic Version of Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ-Ar)

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) affect millions of people worldwide. Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) is a valid and reliable tool to assess the health of patients with MSD. However, this scale is not available in the Arabic language. The purpose of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) into Arabic (MSK-HQ-Ar) and evaluate its validity and reliability among participants with MSD. Methods: This cross-sectional study used guidelines from the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) to translate as well as validate the psychometric properties of MSK-HQ-Ar. Patients with MSD (n = 149) living in Taif participated in the study. Cronbach’s alpha and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to assess internal consistency and test-retest reliability of MSK-HQ-Ar respectively. Spearman’s correlation was used to assess the correlation between MSK-HQ-Ar and the European quality of life five-dimension, five-level scale (EQ-5D-5L). Results: Out of 149 participants, 119 completed the MSK-HQ-Ar twice. The scale showed good internal consistency, Cronbach’s alpha (0.88), and reliability (ICC 0.92–0.95). A strong association was found with the EQ-5D-5L scores. Conclusion: The adapted MSK-HQ-Arabic version revealed acceptable psychometric properties and is a valid and reliable outcome measure to assess MSK health among Arabic speaking patients with MSD.

Work-related Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Agricultural Workers: A Cross-sectional Study in Iran

Objective: In Iran, as in most developing countries, agriculture is considered a hazardous industry. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) have been shown to be the most common occupational injury among farmers. The present study was carried out among agricultural workers of Fars province, Iran to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and to assess working postures and ergonomic working conditions to identify the major risk factors associated with MSD. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1501 randomly selected Iranian agricultural workers with at least 1 year of job tenure. Data were collected using demographic/occupational questionnaire, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), Quick Exposure Check (QEC) technique, and ergonomic working conditions checklist. Results: The mean age of the participants was 41.39 ± 13.64 years. The results of NMQ showed the highest prevalence of MSD symptoms was related to lower back (59.3%), knees (36.9%), and upper back (36.6%). Indeed, the QEC score was high or very high (action levels 3 and 4) in 83.1% of the farmers. Moreover, the ergonomic working conditions checklist revealed that the participants' "working postures" index had the lowest mean, indicating poor ergonomic conditions, while "hand tools" had the highest mean, indicating proper ergonomic conditions. Conclusions: The results demonstrated the high prevalence of MSD symptoms among Iranian agricultural workers. Elimination of harmful working postures was recommended to improve working conditions.

Dor na coluna torácica e fatores associados em fumicultores

Resumo Introdução: dor na coluna torácica diz respeito a traumas cumulativos envolvendo má postura, movimentos repetitivos e longos períodos na mesma posição. Objetivo: avaliar a prevalência de dor na coluna torácica e fatores associados em fumicultores no sul do Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal cuja associação entre o desfecho e os fatores sociodemográficos e comportamentais, atividades laborais, cargas de trabalho e comorbidades foram examinadas pelo teste de Wald para heterogeneidade e tendência linear. A análise multivariável foi realizada utilizando modelo hierárquico e regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Resultados: o estudo envolveu 2.469 indivíduos de ambos os sexos. A prevalência de dor na coluna torácica foi de 21,2%. Limpar equipamento para aplicação de agrotóxico, número de episódios de Doença da Folha Verde, sintomas respiratórios e transtornos psiquiátricos menores foram positivamente associados ao desfecho em ambos os sexos. Tabagismo e intoxicação por agrotóxicos foram associados ao desfecho entre as mulheres, enquanto escolaridade e passar varas com folhas de tabaco foram associados aos homens. Conclusões: reestruturação ergonômica, redução das cargas de trabalho, trocas de posição durante o turno de trabalho e mecanização do processo de trabalho são estratégias importantes para reduzir a exposição à nicotina, agrotóxicos e carga de trabalho ergonômica.

Standing working posture and musculoskeletal pain among Citrus sinensis workers in a low-income country

Background. Work-related musculoskeletal pain (WRMP) among Citrus sinensis farm workers has barely been studied. Yet most work tasks in such farms are manually performed using awkward standing postures that can contribute to WRMP. Aim. This study assessed the standing working posture in relation to WRMP among C. sinensis workers. Methods. Ninety-two workers engaged in manual tasks participated in this cross-sectional study. Postures at the upper limbs were analysed using the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) method. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20. Results. Analyses generally showed statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) between a body part RULA score and WRMP at the concerned body part. The upper arm score was >1 in 77.2% of the workers and caused upper arm pain in 66.3%; the association between the upper score and upper pain was statistically significant (χ ²= 20.57; p < 0.05). Similarly, significant associations were found between: (a) wrist score and wrist pain; (b) neck score and neck pain; (c) trunk score and back pain. Conclusions. C. sinensis workers use unsafe postures which contribute to WRMP at the upper arm, trunk, neck and wrists. Ergonomics measures are required to improve their working posture.

Optimizing implementation of interventions in agriculture for occupational upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders: Results of an expert panel

BACKGROUND

Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSD) is reported worldwide as the second-largest occupational musculoskeletal disorder in agriculture.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study is to identify facilitators and barriers for employers and workers for implementing interventions to reduce work-related risk factors associated with occupational UEMSD in the agricultural sector, according to health and safety consultants.

METHODS

An expert panel was used comprising nine health and safety consultants from the Dutch agricultural sector.

RESULTS

Facilitators and barriers for employers and workers were categorized in the following themes: knowledge, skills, attitude, culture, costs, loss of income, facilitation and employability. There were no differences in facilitators and barriers between UEMSD.

CONCLUSIONS

Facilitators and barriers for implementing preventive interventions in agriculture were on organizational level, like diversity in choice of preventive devices, and personal level such as willingness if there is no work disability.

Clinical Usefulness of X-Ray Findings for Non-specific Low Back Pain in Korean Farmers: FARM Study

Objective

To elucidate the association between non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) and spinal X-ray findings in Korean farmers: Farmers' Cohort for Agricultural Work-Related Musculoskeletal disorders (FARM) study.

Methods

A total of 835 farmers (391 males, 444 females; mean age, 56.6±7.4 years) without red-flag signs of specific LBP were recruited. Presence of LBP more than one week or once a month with more than moderate degree of pain severity during the last year was assessed with a binary questionnaire (yes or no). Spinal degenerative changes were classified into disc height change (DHC) of L4-5 and L5-S1 (grade 0-5) and osteophyte formation of L5 (grade 0-5) by a radiologist based on X-ray findings. Additionally, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis and spondylolysis were assessed.

Results

General prevalence of NSLBP was 40.7%, revealing a higher incidence of NSLBP in female and younger farmers compared to male and older farmers (χ²=23.3, p<0.001; χ²=4.54, p<05, respectively). Among X-ray findings, DHC (L5-S1) grade 4 revealed significantly higher relative risk of NSLBP compared to grade 0 (odds ratio, 5.00; 95% confidence interval, 2.05-12.20) after adjusting age and sex, while other X-ray findings were not associated with NSLBP.

Conclusion

The NSLBP of Korean farmers was significantly related to lumbar disc degenerative changes, suggesting clinical usefulness of X-ray findings in assessing LBP in farmers.

Investigating the Association Between Lower Extremity and Low Back Symptoms Among Saskatchewan Farmers Using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between self-reported low back symptoms and symptoms in the hip, knee, and ankle in a high-risk occupational group.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Low back pain, with or without lower extremity referral, poses a major challenge to occupational productivity, especially in farming. Although low back symptoms can occur independent of lower extremity symptoms, anatomical positioning of nerves supplying the lower limbs means structural and physiological changes in the spine can lead to referred pain in the lower limbs, but the magnitude of the association between low back and lower extremity symptoms is unclear.

METHODS

Baseline postal questionnaire data from the Saskatchewan Farm Injury Cohort Study yielded surveys from 2653 adults from 1020 farms, who responded to Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) items on "ache, pain, discomfort" in nine body parts during the last 12 months. Bivariate and multivariate regression modeling was performed with low back symptoms as the outcome and lower extremity symptoms as the independent variable.

RESULTS

After adjustment for age, sex, depression, and heavy lifting, low back symptom was significantly related with hip pain (odds ratio [OR] = 3.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.04-4.84), knee pain (OR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.49-2.28), and ankle pain (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.40-2.29). Results showed a significant but decreasing relationship to low back symptoms as sites became more distal.

CONCLUSION

Hip and low back symptoms are highly associated, suggesting a common mechanism may be at work. Although there appears be increased risk of knee and ankle region symptoms among those with back pain, the SNQ is not designed to differentiate types of referred symptoms (i.e., numbness, tingling, shooting pain) and/or clinical diagnoses. Other tools, possibly corroborated with clinical examination findings, are likely necessary for a more thorough investigation of referred pain patterns in this high-risk occupational group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Poor safety climate, long work hours, and musculoskeletal discomfort among Latino horse farm workers

This study investigated the prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and work-related factors associated with elevated MSD among Latino thoroughbred farm workers. Participants (N = 225) were recruited using a community-based purposive sampling approach to participate in in-person interviews. Of these workers, 85% experienced MSD. MSD was divided into tertiles; the upper tertile was defined as elevated. Multivariable Poisson regression revealed associations between any elevated MSD and longer tenure on horse farms, longer work hours, and poor safety climate. Elevated neck/back MSD was associated with longer tenure, longer work hours, and poor safety climate. Elevated upper extremity MSD was associated with age and poor safety climate. Elevated lower extremity MSD was associated with longer tenure, longer work hours, and being female. Musculoskeletal discomfort is common among these workers. Improving safety climate and minimizing long work hours is recommended.

Ergonomic evaluation, with the RULA method, of greenhouse tasks of trellising crops

BACKGROUND

The present study uses the RULA method to define the most favourable working conditions to lower climbing greenhouse plants, the most problematic task involved in trellising crops.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to prevent potential musculoskeletal disorders to the upper limbs in workers performing this task.

METHODS

The variety of scenarios involving this task was simulated in the laboratory to evaluate different working heights, crop weights, and types of guides handled.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

From the 2,544 tests made, only some ergonomically favourable conditions were found to be met when the work was done at a height of 1.4 m, although heights of between 1.2 and 1.6 m could prove acceptable. Furthermore, the study shows the importance of the type of hanger needed to perform the work correctly, of the group of hangers tested; ergonomically acceptable handling was possible only with the new-generation ones having the lock device. In the case of using other types of hangers, it is recommended not to support weights greater than 2 kg. In addition to the above recommendations, it is considered vital to guarantee the correct organization of the workday to include recovery times from the earliest working hours, given the repetitive nature of the work, as well as to promote training sessions to avoid incorrect postures, especially regarding the limbs, trunk, wrist, and neck.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Job Factors Among Large-Herd Dairy Milkers

Dairy production in the United States is moving towards large-herd milking operations, resulting in an increase in task specialization and work demands. The objective of this project was to provide preliminary evidence of the association of a number of specific job conditions that commonly characterize large-herd parlor milking operations with work-related musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). A modified version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was administered to assess MSS prevalence among 450 US large-herd parlor workers. Worker demographics and MSS prevalences were generated. Prevalence ratios were also generated to determine associations of a number of specific job conditions that commonly characterize large-herd parlor milking operations with work-related MSS. Work-related MSS are prevalent among large-herd parlor workers, since nearly 80% report 12-month prevalences of one or more symptoms, which are primarily located in the upper extremities, specifically shoulders and wrist/hand. Specific large-herd milking parlor job conditions are associated with MSS in multiple body regions, including performing the same task repeatedly, insufficient rest breaks, working when injured, static postures, adverse environmental conditions, and reaching overhead. These findings support the need for administrative and engineering solutions aimed at reducing exposure to job risk factors for work-related MSS among large-herd parlor workers.

The effectiveness of rehabilitation on pain-free farming in agriculture workers with low back pain in India

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that farming is associated with many agricultural workers experiencing low back pain (LBP). The rehabilitation of these workers should facilitate their functioning, activities and level of participation in an adequate way.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to identify the health components associated with LBP and to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions in returning agricultural workers with LBP to their vocation using the International Classification of Function (ICF) -based tools.

METHODS

Thirty-one full time agricultural workers from 3 different Indian states were prospectively assessed using the ICF core set for LBP. ICF core sets permitted analysis of limitations of function from both the participant and rehabilitation team's perspectives. Each ICF category was rated using an ICF qualifier. The components identified were linked to the ICF categorical profile and assessment sheet. The clinicians identified the global, service program and cycle goals based on ICF. The participants' functioning was followed over a 4-month period.

RESULTS

After intervention, the participants were able to undergo their routine activities without increases in pain. However, on returning to active farming, participants noted few improvements in the components d410 (changing basic body position), d415 (maintaining body position), d430 (lifting and carrying objects), d465 (moving around using equipment), d850 (remunerative employment) and d859 (work and employment, other specified and unspecified).

CONCLUSION

The results of the study conclude that the current interventions for LBP are not effective in returning agriculture workers with LBP in India to pain-free farming. There is an urgent need to individualize the health needs of agriculture workers.

Comparison of Working Conditions and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Dairy Farmers in Southern Sweden over a 25-Year Period

Working conditions and the prevalence of perceived musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSs) among dairy farmers in 2013 were monitored by repeating a mail survey of dairy workers in Scania, southern Sweden, using the same method for collecting data on MSSs and working conditions employed in previous surveys conducted in 1988 and 2002. All dairy enterprises in Scania (total 419) were sent two copies of a questionnaire. One or more responses were received from 232 enterprises (55.4%), of which those from 247 dairy farmers (75% men and 25% women) in 199 enterprises are included in this study. The farmers had increased their weekly working hours in 2013 compared with 2002 (males x¯= 43.9, 40.7; females x¯= 37.9, 33.9). Each male milked on average 30 cows in 1988, 44 cows in 2002, and 86 cows in 2013. The corresponding numbers milked by female farmers were 29, 60, and 102, respectively. In 1988, almost all farmers used tethered systems, while in 2013, 54.4% of male and 66.1% of female farmers instead worked with loose-housing systems. Of the farmers who used loose-housing systems, 50.7% had a robotic milking system. In 2013, 79.0% of male and 88.5% of female farmers reported MSSs on some occasion, especially in the lower back, shoulders, and knees for men, and in the shoulders, lower back, and wrists/hands for women. However, there was no statistical change compared with the frequency of MSSs in 2002. In 2013, there was a tendency for younger dairy farmers (≤35 years) to report MSSs, especially in the shoulders, elbows, lower back, and feet, more frequently than younger farmers in 2002. The males who worked with robot milking systems in 2013 indicated less discomfort in the shoulders than men who worked with other systems. The corresponding females indicated fewer problems in the lower back in 2013. Various aspects of milking system design and technology have been improved to reduce the workload and prevent MSSs in dairy farmers. Nevertheless, more improvements are needed to make the milking process more attractive and reduce health problems, especially in younger farmers currently working with milking and in new recruits.

Prevalence, pattern, and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among pluckers in a tea plantation in Tamil Nadu, India

Context:

Musculoskeletal pain is common among tea leaf pluckers and is attributed to the load they carry, long working hours, the terrain, and insufficient job rotations. As a result of this, their health and work capacity are affected.

Aims:

To assess the prevalence, patterns, and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) among pluckers in a tea plantation in Annamalai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Settings and Design:

This cross-sectional study surveyed 195 pluckers selected by simple random sampling aged between 18 years and 60 years.

Materials and Methods:

The interview schedule had four parts––sociodemographic detail, Standard Nordic Scale, numeric and facial pain rating tool, and a tool to assess factors associated with WRMDs.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.

Results:

Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in the last 12 months and the last 7 days was 83.6% and 78.5%, respectively. The most common site for last 1 year was shoulder (59%) and for last 7 days was the lower back (52.8%). Independent t-test revealed that the mean age of those with pain was 6.59 year more and mean years of employment was 1.38 years more among the workers with pain compared to workers without pain. Increasing morbidities among workers was also significantly associated with an increase in WRMDs on Chi-square test.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was high among tea pluckers and the most common site during the last 12 months and the last 7 days was the shoulder and lower back respectively was mild in character. Increase in age and duration of employment was associated with WRMDs.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Dentists suffer a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) but studies are quite limited. The present study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among dentists in the Ha'il Region, Saudi Arabia.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

A cross-sectional, questionnaire study was conducted among 80 licensed dentists af.filiated with the Ministry of Health (MoH), Ha'il Region, Saudi Arabia from January 2014-January 2015.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A self-administered questionnaire, based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was sent to participants after translation to Arabic. The questionnaire was delivered by mail with a prepaid return envelope.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight questionnaires (85%) were returned. The prevalence of MSDs among respondents was 77.9% (n=53) with the most commonly affected areas the lower back (73.5%) (39/53) followed by the neck (66%) (35/53) and the shoulders (43.3%) (23/53). Twenty-four (45.2%) of 53 respondents had experienced MSDs in the neck and lower back at the same time throughout the past twelve months. Nearly 85% (45/53) of respondents were found to have MSDs affecting two or more sites.

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of MSDs was high among dentists in the Ha'il region. Lower back, neck and shoul.ders were the most commonly affected body sites.

Prevalence of low back pain and associated factors among farmers during the rice transplanting process

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of low back pain and associated factors in Thai rice farmers during the rice transplanting process. [Subjects and Methods] Three hundred and forty-four farmers, aged 20–59 years old, were asked to answer a questionnaire modified from the Standard Nordic Questionnaire (Thai version). The questionnaire sought demographic, back-related, and psychosocial data. [Results] The results showed that the prevalence of low back pain was 83.1%. Farmers younger than 45 years old who worked in the field fewer than six days were more likely to experience low back pain than those who worked for at least six days. Farmers with high stress levels were more likely to have low back pain. [Conclusion] In the rice transplanting process, the low back pain experienced by the farmers was associated with the weekly work duration and stress.

The effect of presenteeism-related health conditions on employee work engagement levels: A comparison between groups

Orientation: Awareness of presenteeism-related health conditions is important as the prevalence of these conditions unknowingly influences performance and productivity in organisations.Research purpose: The primary objective of this study was to determine the differences in work engagement levels based on groups of presenteeism-related conditions in employees.Motivation for the study: Awareness of the impact of presenteeism-related conditions on work engagement levels can aid in the crafting of interventions to assist employees who suffer from these conditions, which in turn can boost work engagement levels.Research design, approach and method: Cross-sectional data was collected from an availability sample of employees in the manufacturing sector (N = 3387).Main findings: The results of the multi-group structural equation modelling revealed significant mean differences in work engagement levels between the groups. Practical significance tests revealed significant differences between all the groups. The largest difference was between the group who suffered from no presenteeism-related conditions and the group who suffered from all three conditions included in this study concurrently.Practical/managerial implications: Organisational stakeholders are encouraged to take note of the effects that presenteeism-related health conditions have on work engagement and to consider relevant strategies and interventions to address and alleviate symptoms in order to tend to employee health and obviate the effect on productivity.Contribution: This study found that there were clear practical differences between employees who suffer from the presenteeism-related conditions and those who suffer from none of the conditions. Furthermore, there was also a clear difference when comparing the ‘no condition’ group to a general random sample in which employees might experience some symptoms but not comorbidity.

Associação entre a carga de trabalho agrícola e as dores relacionadas

Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre a carga de trabalho agrícola e as dores atribuídas pelos agricultores. Métodos: Estudo transversal que incluiu 259 agricultores de dois cenários rurais. Utilizou-se instrumento de pesquisa validado para a avaliação da carga de trabalho. Resultados: As associações com maior magnitude ficaram entre a comercialização dos produtos e a dor nos pés e o preparo do solo associado às lombalgias. Os agricultores que apresentaram dores evidenciaram maior carga de trabalho, assim como a carga de trabalho foi significativa para os agricultores que apresentaram estresse, ansiedade e transtorno do ciclo vigília-sono. Conclusão: As cargas de trabalho oriundas do processo de trabalho agrícola exercem influências na saúde e podem levar ao desgaste físico e emocional do agricultor, ocasionando dores e possíveis distúrbios e doenças relacionadas ao trabalho.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Sugarcane Farmers in North-Eastern Thailand

This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to identify prevalence and factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among sugarcane farmers. Cluster random sampling was used to select 540 sugarcane farmers from 3 provinces in North-Eastern Thailand. Three related questionnaires, plus assessments by 2 expert physiotherapists, were used to check for factors associated with WMSDs and prevalence of WMSDs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regressions. The results indicated the prevalence of WMSDs among sugarcane farmers in the 7 days before the interview and looking back over the previous 12 months were 82.96% and 88.70%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with reporting WMSDs ( P value < .05) during past 12 months were ( a) repetitive motions (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.90; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05-3.43), ( b) working in awkward postures (adjusted OR = 1.95; 95% CI = 1.01-3.77), ( c) forceful exertions (adjusted OR = 2.78; 95% CI = 1.54-5.02), and ( d) stress about future income (adjusted OR = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.02-3.16). Recommendations are made for risk prevention strategies.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among US large-herd dairy parlor workers

BACKGROUND

Dairy production in the US is moving towards large-herd milking operations resulting in an increase in task specialization and work demands.

METHODS

A modified version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was administered to assess MSS prevalence among 452 US large-herd parlor workers. Worker demographics and MSS prevalences were assessed, and differences based on parlor configuration (i.e., herringbone, parallel, rotary) were computed.

RESULTS

Three-fourths (76.4%) of parlor workers reported work-related MSS in at least one body part. Highest prevalences were reported in the upper extremity (55%). Herringbone workers reported a higher prevalence of MSS in the wrist/hand, and rotary workers reported higher prevalences of MSS in the neck, upper back, and shoulders.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings draw attention to higher work-related MSS in the upper extremity among dairy parlor workers. As the trend toward larger herd sizes on US dairy farms continues, the need for further health and safety research will increase.

Patterns of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers in palm plantation occupation

This study investigated the patterns of ongoing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) and exposure risk to musculoskeletal injuries for various body regions among palm plantation workers. Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (SNMQ) was used to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders symptoms. The Quick Exposure check (QEC) was used to assess the exposure risk of farmers to WRMDs. The common pattern of WRMDs was back pain (40%), followed by shoulder pain (19%). The QEC revealed high exposure risk for neck (56%), followed by back (45.6%). The results from the SNMQ showed that 58% reported pain in 1 region, followed by 2 regions (10.7%) and 3 regions (3.6%). Back pain and shoulder pain were found to be common among workers in palm plantation occupation. Nevertheless, the neck region appeared to have the highest risk of exposure to injuries.

Agricultural work and chronic musculoskeletal pain among Latino farm workers: the MICASA study

BACKGROUND

Agriculture poses varied dangers to hired farm workers in the U.S., but little information exists on occupational risks for chronic musculoskeletal pain. We examined common work positions, such as kneeling, carrying heavy loads, and repetitive motion that may increase the risk for chronic musculoskeletal pain.

METHODS

MICASA is a population-based study of occupational exposures and health in hired farm workers in California. This analysis includes 759 participants, 18-55 years old, engaged in farm work and residing in Mendota, CA. Chronic pain was defined as pain lasting 6 weeks or longer at specific body sites (back, knee, hip, etc.) over the entire farm work career.

RESULTS

Mean age was 37.9 years. Sixty-five percent participants were born in Mexico, 27.7% were born in El Salvador, and 4.2% were U.S-born. Chronic pain was associated with older age and female sex. After adjustment for age, years working in agriculture, and smoking, stooping/bending >30 hr/week among both men (OR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.03-5.99) and women (OR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.04-4.46) was associated with chronic hip pain. Driving tractors or other heavy farm equipment >60 hr/week was associated with increased odds of chronic hip pain (OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.02-4.54) among men. We also observed significant associations with kneeling or crawling >35 hr/week among women for both chronic back pain (OR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.27-6.93) and knee pain (OR = 3.02, 95% CI: 1.07-8.50), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is prevalent among farm workers and is associated with common work positions. Further research should focus on developing preventive interventions for tasks associated with increased pain risk. These interventions should be targeted to specific types of agricultural tasks.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Irish farm operators

BACKGROUND

To establish prevalence, risk factors, and impact of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among farmers in Ireland.

METHODS

In summer 2009, a questionnaire was appended to the Teagasc (Irish Agricultural and Food Development Authority) National Farm Survey (n = 1,110) to obtain data on the prevalence, risk factors and impact of WMSDs amongst farm operators in Ireland. Data were collected by trained recorders and analyzed using chi-square tests, t-tests, Mann-Whitney's U-tests and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The prevalence of WMSDs in the previous year was 9.4% (n = 103), with the most commonly affected body region being the low back 31% (n = 32). Nearly 60% (n = 57) of farmers reported missing at least a full day's work as a consequence of their WMSD. Personal factors evaluated using binary regression analysis, were found not to influence whether or not a farmer experienced a WMSD. However, work-related factors such as larger European Size Units (ESUs, OR: 1.007, CI: 1.002-1.012), greater number of hectares farmed (OR: 2.501, CI: 1.208-4.920), higher income (OR: 1.859, CI: 1.088-3.177), dairy enterprise (OR: 1.734, CI: 1.081-2.781), and working on a full-time farm (OR: 2.156, CI: 1.399-3.321) increased the likelihood of experiencing a WMSD. Working on a full-time farm was the only factor found to independently predict WMSDs in the multiple regression analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the prevalence of WMSDs can be reduced by the application of improved farm management practices. A more detailed examination of the risk factors associated with WMSDs is required to establish causality and develop effective interventions.

Work-related musculoskeletal discomfort of dairy farmers and employed workers

Background

Dairy farming is physically demanding and associated with a high frequency of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). This study investigated and compared work-related MSD, ergonomic work factors and physical exertion in farmers and employed farm workers on dairy farms in Sweden.

Methods

The study comprised 66 dairy farmers, and 37 employed dairy farm workers. A modified version of the general Standardised Nordic Questionnaire was used for analyses of perceived MSD in nine different parts of the body. Perceived physical discomfort was assessed using questions concerning ergonomic work factors. A rating scale was used for analyses of perceived physical exertion. Information about participant demographics was also collected. The response rate amounted to 70%.

Results

The most frequently reported MSD in farmers and farm workers were located in the lower back (50% and 43%, respectively) and the shoulders (47% and 43%, respectively). MSD were also frequently reported in the neck (33%) among farmers, and in the hands/wrist (41%) among farm workers. MSD in the elbows (23%) and feet (21%) were significantly more frequently reported by farmers than farm workers (5%). Female farmers and farm workers both reported significantly higher frequencies of MSD in the neck (48% and 56%, respectively) and hands/wrists (44% and 61%, respectively) than their male colleagues (24% and 5%; 10% and 21%, respectively). In addition, female farm workers had significantly higher reported frequencies of MSD in the upper and lower back (39% and 61%, respectively) than their male counterparts (5% and 26%, respectively). Milking was perceived as a weakly to moderately physically demanding work task. Repetitive and monotonous work in dairy houses was the ergonomic work factor most frequently reported as causing physically discomfort among farmers (36%) and farm workers (32%), followed by lifting heavy objects (17% and 27%, respectively). Female workers had significantly more reported discomfort from repetitive and monotonous work than their male counterparts (50% and 16%, respectively).

Conclusion

Despite the technical developments on modern dairy farms, there is still a high prevalence of MSD and discomfort from ergonomic work factors, particularly among female workers.

An evaluation of low back pain among farmers in Ireland

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) is the most commonly reported musculoskeletal disorder among farmers. There is limited research regarding LBP among farmers in Ireland.

AIMS

To explore attributed causes of LBP, investigate the relationship between LBP and personal and work-related factors and measure the impact of LBP.

METHODS

A questionnaire survey of Irish farmers was conducted on farmers from each of the main farm enterprise systems in Ireland. Data were analysed using chi-square tests, t-tests, Mann-Whitney tests and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

There were 600 farmers included in the survey with 100 from each of the six main farm systems. Lifting/pulling/pushing was identified as the most commonly attributed cause of LBP. In the multiple regression analysis the variables found to be associated with LBP included farm size and self-rated health. The odds ratios (OR) of LBP were greater among operators of medium and large farms [(OR = 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-2.22 and OR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.16-3.98, respectively] compared with smaller farms (P < 0.05). Those who perceived health as 'good' (OR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14-2.33) by comparison with a rating of 'very good' had greater odds of LBP (P < 0.01). Some farmers changed work habits, sought help and needed time off work due to LBP.

CONCLUSIONS

Lifting was identified as the main attributed cause for LBP. LBP leads to work disability that necessitated farmers changing work habits, getting help and needing time off work. In order to reduce LBP-related disability among farmers in the future, work practices involving lifting need to be further investigated.

The FIT-HaNSA demonstrates reliability and convergent validity of functional performance in patients with shoulder disorders

STUDY DESIGN

Psychometric study design.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the test-retest reliability and convergent validity of the Functional Impairment Test-Hand and Neck/Shoulder/Arm (FIT-HaNSA) in patients with shoulder disorders.

BACKGROUND

Performance tests that assess functional ability of patients with shoulder disorders can provide useful information for making clinical or return-to-activity decisions. No performance-based shoulder test has yet demonstrated sufficient relevance or clinical measurement properties. The FIT-HaNSA examines upper extremity performance during repetitive tasks that emphasize shoulder reaching and static postures and, therefore, has greater relevance for assessing performance.

METHODS

Thirty-six patients with shoulder disorders and 65 healthy controls were recruited for the study. The FIT-HaNSA, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, isometric shoulder strength, and shoulder range of motion were assessed at baseline and repeated 2 to 7 days later. Test-retest reliability was described using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC(2,1)) and standard error of measurement. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine the level of association between the FIT-HaNSA scores and the other measures.

RESULTS

The ICCs for test-retest reliability for the FIT-HaNSA ranged from 0.89 to 0.97 in the patient group and 0.79 to 0.91 in the control group. The FIT-HaNSA showed high correlation with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, and moderate correlations with shoulder range of motion and muscle strength.

CONCLUSION

The FIT-HaNSA demonstrated high test-retest reliability and convergent validity with other related outcomes in patients with shoulder disorders. Further longitudinal studies are required to evaluate the responsiveness of the FIT-HaNSA in patients with different upper extremity conditions.

Risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among farm owners and farm workers: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

A systematic review was undertaken to establish risk factors for the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among farmers.

METHODS

Comprehensive electronic searches of Pubmed, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Agris Database, and Cochrane Library were carried out using a battery of key words for MSDs and farmers. The studies methods quality was assessed using a standardized checklist.

RESULTS

Thirty-three studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The median method score was 65% of the maximum attainable score, resulting in 15 studies of higher methodological. Risks were categorized into: Work characteristics (n = 11), personal characteristics (n = 5), and psychosocial factors (n = 5). Spinal MSD risk factors include exposure to working in tree crops, vibration, postural load, being an owner operator, age, education beyond high school, suffering from asthma or depression, having <8 hr nightly sleep, bad quality sleep, and geographic location. Upper extremity MSD risk factors include being an owner operator, dust with pig workers, numbness and coldness in younger milkers and numbness in milkers >43 years, age, and body height in dairy farmers. Lower extremity MSD risk factors include, duration of farming ≥10 years, working >5 hr daily in animal barns, milking >40 cows, years as a dairy farmer, farm work, age, body mass, and female gender.

CONCLUSIONS

In exploring risk factors the spine was the most researched body region, followed by lower and upper extremity. Given the variance between studies, it is recommended that future studies focus on specific types of farmers and should explore specific exposures for specific body parts using standardized case definitions.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among farmers: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among farmers and to establish the most common regional MSDs reported.

METHODS

Comprehensive electronic searches of Pubmed, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Agris Database, and Cochrane Library were carried out using keywords for MSDs and farmers. Pooled estimates of prevalence with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for overall MSD prevalence and the most common regional MSDs reported.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into this review. From these studies, life-time prevalence of any form of MSD among farmers was 90.6% while 1-year MSD prevalence was 76.9% (95% CI 69.8-82.7). The majority of studies focused on spinal MSDs with low back pain (LBP) the most frequently investigated. Life-time LBP prevalence was 75% (95% CI 67-81.5) while 1-year LBP prevalence was 47.8% (95% CI 40.2-55.5). The next most common regional MSDs reported were upper (range 3.6-71.4%) and lower extremities (range 10.4-41%).

CONCLUSIONS

The systematic review identified the prevalence of MSDs by body region in farmers and established that LBP was the most common MSD, followed by upper and then lower extremity MSDs. Reported trends suggest that the prevalence of MSDs in farmers is greater than in non-farmer populations. Case-definition uniformity among MSD researchers is warranted. More studies are needed regarding upper and lower extremity MSDs, gender, workplace, and task context of MSDs.