Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Complaints Among Computer Workers in Sri Lanka
Author Information
Author(s): Ranasinghe Priyanga, Perera Yashasvi S, Lamabadusuriya Dilusha A, Kulatunga Supun, Jayawardana Naveen, Rajapakse Senaka, Katulanda Prasad
Primary Institution: University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Hypothesis
What are the prevalence and risk factors of complaints of arms, neck, and shoulders among computer office workers in Sri Lanka?
Conclusion
The prevalence of work-related complaints among computer office workers in Sri Lanka is high and similar to that in developed countries, with significant associations to physical and psychosocial factors.
Supporting Evidence
- The 1-year prevalence of complaints was 56.9%, with forearm/hand being the most common area affected.
- 88.4% of evaluated workstations were found to be non-compliant with OSHA standards.
- Incorrect body posture and bad work habits were significant predictors of CANS.
Takeaway
Many computer workers in Sri Lanka have pain in their neck, shoulders, and arms, and this is often caused by bad posture and too much computer use.
Methodology
The study involved 2,500 computer office workers, with data collected using the Maastricht Upper Extremity Questionnaire and workstation evaluations.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias in self-reported complaints and the cross-sectional design may not capture the full picture of risk factors.
Limitations
The study is cross-sectional, which limits the ability to establish causation, and there may be recall bias in reporting complaints.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 30.8 years, with 50.8% males; most participants were right-handed and had worked in their current position for 1-5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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