Computer workstation analysis: a case study of an occupational therapy intervention

This study was designed to determine the efficacy of the implementation of computer workstation recommendation by an occupational therapist and the satisfaction of employees with these recommendations. The original worksite analysis was performed to decrease pain symptoms and discomfort of employees whose work is at a computer.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the participants' work environments with a follow-up questionnaire used. All participant responses underwent a cross-case comparison analysis to identify themes.

Six of the seven participants reported experiencing a reduction in their musculoskeletal pain symptoms after implementing the ergonomic recommendations made following the computer station worksite analysis by an occupational therapist. The changes led to increased comfort and productivity.

Compliance of the workers following through with the recommendations contributed to the improvement in musculoskeletal pain and discomfort for employees. Using a worksite analysis to provide customized ergonomic recommendations for an individual's computer workstation resulted in decreased upper extremity musculoskeletal pain and increased productivity for these employees.