WORK RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL EFFECTS IN EMPLOYEES REPORTING TO FIELD HOSPITAL IN MONROVIA, LIBERIA, A SURVEY

Abstract

Objective: To analyze work related effects on musculoskeletal system in employees reporting to Pakistan Field Hospital level II (PFH lvl II) Star Base, Monrovia, Liberia. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: PFH lvl II, Star Base, Monrovia, Liberia, from Apr to Sep 2017. Methodology: We enrolled 104 patients 30-60 years (years) consecutively, who were given a questionnaire regarding demographic and work related musculoskeletal issues. Type of work is divided into two categories as desk work/computer work and physical. Musculoskeletal issues were divided into head-ache, upper limb/cervical issues, lower limb/nonspecific back issues and combined upper and lower limb issues. Descriptive statistics were used for variables under study. Pearson Chi square test (X2) and odd’s ratios (OR) were calculated. Results: Our study showed 48 (46%) suffering from Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) as compare to 56 (54%) who were symptom free. There were increase in percentage of MSDs with increase in age groups. Desk related issues (58.8%) were more common in 41–50 yrs age whereas manual work related MSDs (72.2%) were predominant in 31–40 yrs group. Gender OR = 14.806, 95% Confidence interval (CI): 3.2-68.3 and obesity (OR = 2.727, 95% CI: 1.0-7.1) showed strong association with work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Conclusion: Our study will raise awareness of work related musculoskeletal effects and measures to avoid them

Keywords

• work related musculoskeletal disorders
• muscular pain
• physical activity