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Physical risk factors for neck pain
G A Ariëns1, W van Mechelen, P M Bongers
1Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands. g.ariens@arbeid.tno.nl
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|April 1, 2000
Summary
Physical risk factors like prolonged sitting and trunk twisting are linked to neck pain. This systematic review identified several work-related factors contributing to neck pain, emphasizing the need for ergonomic workplace design.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Ergonomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder.
- Identifying physical risk factors is crucial for prevention and management.
- Workplace ergonomics plays a significant role in musculoskeletal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and identify physical risk factors associated with neck pain.
- To establish the strength of evidence for identified risk factors.
- To inform workplace interventions and ergonomic guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of cross-sectional, cohort, and case-referent studies.
- Evidence levels were defined based on methodological quality and study design.
- Sensitivity analysis was conducted to refine the identification of risk factors.
Main Results:
- Some evidence supports a positive relationship between neck pain and duration of sitting.
- Trunk twisting or bending was also identified as a risk factor.
- Work-related factors include neck flexion, arm force/posture, vibration, and workplace design.
Conclusions:
- Several physical and work-related factors are associated with an increased risk of neck pain.
- Ergonomic assessments and interventions targeting these factors are recommended.
- Further research may refine the understanding of causal relationships.