Efficacy of a telerehabilitation intervention programme using biofeedback among computer operators

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy
• Ergonomics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Computer operators face high risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) due to prolonged static postures.
• Existing interventions may have limitations in accessibility and continuous support for affected individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a remote tele-biofeedback ergonomic intervention program.
• To assess the impact on pain symptoms, body posture, and psychosocial factors in computer operators with WRMSD.

Main Methods:

• A tele-biofeedback ergonomic intervention program was implemented for 12 computer operators with WRMSD.
• Participants practiced the intervention at their workstations with remote guidance.
• Evaluations of pain, posture, and psychosocial characteristics were conducted pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The intervention demonstrated partial success, with improvements noted in body positioning at workstations.
• A decrease in pain was observed in specific body areas among participants.
• Tele-biofeedback was found to be a feasible and efficient component of the intervention.

Conclusions:

• Tele-biofeedback ergonomic interventions are feasible and partially effective for computer operators with WRMSD.
• This approach offers a promising avenue for occupational therapy practice, particularly through remote delivery.
• Further research into tele-health applications for WRMSD is encouraged.