Prevalence of Arm, Neck, and Shoulder Complaints Among Computer Workers
Author Information
Author(s): Eltayeb Shahla, Staal J Bart, Kennes Janneke, Lamberts Petra HG, de Bie Rob A
Primary Institution: Maastricht University, Department of Epidemiology and Caphri Research Institute
Hypothesis
The study aims to investigate the prevalence of complaints of arm, neck, and shoulder (CANS) among computer office workers and to develop a questionnaire for measuring workplace risk factors.
Conclusion
Neck and shoulder complaints are more frequently reported among Dutch computer workers than arm, elbow, and hand complaints.
Supporting Evidence
- 54% of respondents reported at least one complaint in the arm, neck, and/or shoulder.
- The highest prevalence rates were for neck and shoulder symptoms at 33% and 31%, respectively.
- The MUEQ showed satisfactory reliability and internal consistency.
Takeaway
Many people who work on computers have pain in their neck and shoulders, and this study created a questionnaire to help understand why.
Methodology
The study used a structured questionnaire, the Maastricht Upper Extremity Questionnaire (MUEQ), to assess risk factors among 264 computer office workers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the low response rate.
Limitations
The response rate of 44% was low, which may affect the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 133 men and 131 women, with a higher percentage of men working five days a week compared to women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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