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Riding instructors, their musculoskeletal health and working conditions
1Department of Work Science, Business Economics, and Environmental Psychology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 88, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden. lotta.lofqvist@ltj.slu.se
Riding instructors frequently experience musculoskeletal problems, especially in the shoulders, lower back, and neck. Regular physical exercise outside of riding significantly reduces the risk of developing these issues.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Sports Medicine
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Riding instructors face demanding work conditions.
- Understanding their occupational health risks is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate working conditions, workload, and musculoskeletal problems in Swedish riding instructors.
- To identify risk factors associated with musculoskeletal issues.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed to 800 riding instructors.
- Workload was assessed using the Borg CR-10 scale.
- Musculoskeletal symptoms were analyzed using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms reported in shoulders (60%), lower back (56%), and neck (52%).
- 91% experienced symptoms in the past year; 55% in the past week.
- Manure removal identified as the heaviest task; 14.5% sustained work injuries.
- Exercising ≥2 hours/week outside riding reduced musculoskeletal problem risk by 50% (OR=0.47).
Conclusions:
- High symptom prevalence noted, even with a young median age (33).
- Reducing workload and preventing injuries are key.
- Incorporating supplementary physical exercise is vital for prevention.
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