Chronic musculoskeletal disorders as risk factors for reduced work ability in younger and ageing workers

The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence and intensity of musculoskeletal pain as a risk factor for reduced work ability.

In total, 1449 workers participated in the study, 64% were younger workers (<45 years old, M 31.4); 36% were ageing workers (≥45 years old, M 50.3), Their health condition was established on the basis of (a) subjective feeling of health on a 5-point scale, (b) pain in 6 parts of the body in the past year; and (c) intensity of pain on a 100-mm visual analogue scale (VAS). Work ability was assessed with the subjective work ability index (WAI).

The results of the study showed that although in the both groups, i.e., younger and ageing workers, the occurrence and intensity of pain in the hands/wrists, neck and lower back were a significant factor which decreased WAI, in ageing workers only the occurrence of pain in the lower back generated higher risk factors for reduced work ability (WAI < 37).

Improving physical and psychosocial working conditions to reduce musculoskeletal complaints, and identifying individuals with such complaints are important in increasing workers' work ability and thus extending their occupational activity.