The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in computer workers and industrial workers

Anotace: Various work-related risk factors cause neck and upper extremity pains and disorders. The pain severity and the frequency of MSDs among workers are more dependent on the nature of work and physical workload than on the length of service. Office workers (N=192) and garment workers (N=48) were investigated. More muscular pains occurred in the latter group and, also, working ability was lower among the sewing machine operators. The condition of muscles was determined by using myotonometry. In the garment workers’ group, it could be seen that the stiffness of m. adductor pollicis had increased in both hands. To prevent MSDs, it is necessary to pay attention to the work environment, muscular pain occurrences, pain severity, and muscle tone and stiffness. The myotonometric method could find more use in the occupational healthcare system.