Prevalence of Upper Extremity Musculo skeletal Disorders among workers in an industrial town in Tamilnadu
187-190
Correspondence
Dr. Bertha A, Department of Anatomy,
Christian Medical College,
Vellore 632 002, India
Phone number:(Res): 0416- 2284026; (Off): 2284245
Telefax No.0091-0416-2262268
Email: bertha@cmcvellore.ac.in; bertharathinam@gmail.com
Background: Musculo Skeletal Disorders (MSD) contribute 37% of the disease burden which is attributable to occupational risk factors globally, resulting in substantial disability. Despite mechanization and automation, there is an ever increasing incidence of MSD, which has an adverse impact on the individual and the society. Little information on the prevalence of MSD is available in South India. Aim: The present study was aimed primarily to evaluate the prevalence of MSD in industrial workers and also secondarily to identify the location specific MSD, to generate guidelines to optimize the work, to minimize the risk of injury development and to maximize the output quality. Material and Methods: This cross sectional pilot study included 219 subjects of age groups ranging from 18 to 55 years, from three different industries. Questionnaires were administered to assess the work exposure and health. The range of movementof the joints was calculated by using a Goniometer. The postural workload was assessed by using a RULA work sheet. A clinical examination was done to diagnose MSD. Results: 32.6% of the subjects suffered from MSD. The highest prevalence of MSD was seen among pyrotechnics (44.4 %), followed by match makers (32.7%) and litho offset printers (19.2%). An increased prevalence of symptom severity was observed in women (36.1%) and in individuals who performed moderately strenuous tasks (52.8%). Conclusion: The present study has estimated the baseline prevalence of MSD in industrial workers, which can be effectively applied for the optimisation of the work system to minimise the risk of injury and to maximise productivity. Key message: The knowledge of musculoskeletal disorders and its prevalence among industrial workers can be effectively applied for the optimisation of the work system to minimise the risk of injury and to maximise productivity.