Complaints of the arm, neck and shoulder among computer office workers in Sudan: a prevalence study with validation of an Arabic risk factors questionnaire
2008

Prevalence of Arm, Neck, and Shoulder Complaints Among Computer Workers in Sudan

Sample size: 250 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Eltayeb Shahla M, Staal J Bart, Hassan Amar A, Awad Salwa S, de Bie Rob A

Primary Institution: Maastricht University

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of work-related complaints of the arm, neck, and shoulder among computer office workers in Sudan?

Conclusion

The prevalence of complaints among computer office workers in Sudan is similar to that found in Western developed countries.

Supporting Evidence

  • 53% of respondents reported mild cases of complaints.
  • 64% reported neck symptoms and 41% reported shoulder symptoms.
  • The Arabic version of the questionnaire showed satisfactory psychometric properties.

Takeaway

Many computer workers in Sudan have pain in their arms, necks, and shoulders, just like workers in richer countries.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated Arabic version of the Maastricht upper extremity questionnaire among 282 computer office workers.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to self-reported data and the exclusion of workers with severe psychiatric disorders.

Limitations

The study only included workers from specific companies in Khartoum, which may not represent all computer office workers in Sudan.

Participant Demographics

65% male, 80% aged 25-35 years, with a mix of private and governmental sector workers.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1476-069X-7-33

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication