Work-related discomfort among floor-sitting sedge weavers: a cross-sectional survey

Purpose. This cross-sectional survey aimed to evaluate and identify risk factors of work-related discomfort among floor-sitting Thai sedge handicraft weavers. Materials and methods. Sedge weavers (N = 285) were interviewed face to face using a modified standardized Nordic questionnaire. Data were subjected to weighted analysis and risk factors identified using logistic regression models based on a pre-compiled directed acyclic graph. Results. Most sedge weavers were elderly (65.9% ≥ 50 years) with >20 years' experience. Mats were the most common product. Buttocks (72.7%) and lower back (67.3%) were the commonest regions for discomfort. Neck, shoulders and upper back were less commonly involved (56.9, 56.7 and 52.6% respectively). Higher body mass index and lack of exercise were positively associated with buttock discomfort, and shorter sleep duration, not using a cushion, older age and having dyslipidaemia associated with lower back discomfort. Conclusions. The majority of sedge weavers experienced work-related discomfort. Taking regular exercise, having sufficient sleep and sitting on a cushion may reduce the discomfort experienced by these sedge-weavers.