Work and lifestyle factors associated with musculoskeletal pain among professional cleaners: a cross-sectional study

Objectives. Among cleaners, lower back pain (LBP) and neck/shoulder pain (NSP) are prevalent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Despite their high occurrence, the underlying causes of LBP and NSP in this population remain largely unknown, suggesting a multifactorial aetiology. This study aims to assess the association between various lifestyle, physical and psychosocial factors with LBP and NSP in professional cleaners. Methods. The study included cleaners from the Danish Work Environment and Health study 2012-2018 with a total of 1042 responses. The cleaners filled in a questionnaire about their work environment, lifestyle and health. Associations between a range of work and lifestyle factors (predictors) with LBP and NSP (outcome) were estimated using general linear models. Results. When controlling for various confounders, cleaners experiencing high physical exertion during work showed higher LBP and NSP compared with those experiencing low and moderate physical exertion (p < 0.0001). Low recognition from management was also associated with higher LBP and NSP (p < 0.05). Several factors did not reach statistical significance: smoking, leisure physical activity, influence at work and support from colleagues. Conclusion. This cross-sectional study showed that obesity, high physical exertion during work and low recognition from management were associated with higher LBP and NSP.