Neck, Back, and Shoulder Pain Complaints in Urban Firefighters: The Benefits of Aerobic Exercise

Abstract

Objectives: The goals of this investigation were to document the prevalence of, and the risk factors for, neck, back, and shoulder [NBS] muscle pain in urban firefighters.

Methods: A sample of employed urban firefighters [N = 382] completed surveys documenting the frequency of their NBS pain complaints [past week] and their health habits.

Results: Nearly 80 percent of the firefighter respondents reported at least one NBS pain complaint. Reported frequency of aerobic exercise was significantly and negatively correlated with the respondents' NBS pain complaints.

Conclusions: Urban firefighters, who have high rates of injury and an elevated risk of regional body pain symptoms, may benefit from regular aerobic exercise.

KEYWORDS:

• Muscle pain
• epidemiology
• aerobic exercise
• firefighters