Prevalence and predictors of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among weavers of Varanasi, India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are widespread among workers in the weaving industry. The most affected body regions are the neck, shoulders, back, and wrist. The present study attempts to understand risk factors for MSDs in various body region among handloom and power loom weavers. Method: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted on a sample of 364 weavers during November 2019 to February 2020. The survey instrument for measuring musculoskeletal symptoms was adopted from a standardised Nordic questionnaire. The impact of the occupation of weaving on MSDs was analysed using binary logistics regression. Results: The 12-month prevalence of MSDs was higher among handloom weavers compared to power loom weavers, particularly in the upper back (84-45%), lower back (82–50%), knee (60–35%), and shoulder (76–42%) respectively. Similar patterns were observed in the 12-month prevalence of MSDs, which prevented regular activity inside or outside the home. Analysis suggests that the occupation of weaving raises the risk of MSDs particularly in the shoulder (OR: 4.52, C.I.: 2.63–7.76), lower (OR: 6.9, C.I.: 3.79–12.54) and upper back (OR: 5.63, C.I.: 3.19–9.95). Older age and long years of working are significant risk factors for MSDs. Conclusions: The findings suggest a relatively higher prevalence of MSDs among handloom weavers, particularly in the upper back, lower back and shoulder, compared to Powerloom weavers. Preventive measures and treatment to minimise the burden of MSDs among handloom weavers are strongly recommended.

Keywords

• Musculoskeletal disorder (MSDs)
• Textile industry
• Handloom weavers
• Powerloom weavers
• India