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Upper-extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders in Keyboard Operators in Brazil: A Cross-sectional Study
1Disciplina de Reumatologia, Escoal Paulista de Medicina, Rua Botucatu N&supo; 740-CEP 04023-062, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Summary
Keyboard operators in Sao Paulo exhibit higher rates of upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSDs) compared to other office workers. Implementing adequate work breaks may help reduce these repetitive strain injuries.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSDs) are a significant concern in office environments.
- Keyboard operators may be at a higher risk due to the nature of their work.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of UEMSDs among keyboard operators in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
- To compare UEMSD prevalence between keyboard operators and other office workers.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 130 keyboard operators and 138 office workers from two computing centers.
- Standardized questionnaires were used for interviews, followed by rheumatologist examinations for symptomatic individuals.
- Prevalence was assessed based on reported pain and diagnosed disorders within a 12-month period.
Main Results:
- Keyboard operators reported significantly higher rates of upper-extremity pain in the past 7 days (51% vs. 13%) and 12 months (69% vs. 19%) compared to office workers.
- Diagnosed UEMSDs were significantly more prevalent in keyboard operators (p < 0.0001).
- Tenosynovitis was the most common UEMSD among keyboard operators. UEMSD prevalence was associated with longer employment duration and insufficient rest breaks.
Conclusions:
- Keyboard operators in Sao Paulo have a significantly higher prevalence of UEMSDs than other office workers.
- Strategies focusing on adequate work breaks are recommended to mitigate repetitive strain injuries in keyboard operators.