Gender differences in upper extremity musculoskeletal complaints in the working population

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Epidemiology
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Gender disparities in upper extremity musculoskeletal complaints are prevalent in the working population.
• Previous research suggests occupational exposure may contribute to these differences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the association between gender and upper extremity musculoskeletal complaints across various occupational groups.
• To test the hypothesis that occupational gender segregation explains higher complaint risks in women.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 16,874 employees across 21 occupational classes.
• Analysis of gender-specific risks for upper extremity complaints within the total sample and individual occupational classes.
• Statistical adjustment for occupational class to assess the impact of gender segregation.

Main Results:

• Women exhibited significantly higher risks for neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist complaints compared to men.
• Elevated risks for women were observed within numerous occupational classes, particularly for neck and shoulder complaints.
• Adjustment for occupational class did not reduce the observed gender differences in complaint risks.

Conclusions:

• Confirms higher risks of upper extremity musculoskeletal complaints for female workers.
• Rejects the differential occupational exposure theory as the primary explanation for these gender disparities.
• Emphasizes the need for careful consideration of gender in ergonomic and epidemiological research.