Association of risk factors with musculoskeletal disorders in manual-working farmers

ABSTRACT

The current study is aimed at recognizing the risk factors for major work-related issues (ie, musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs]) among 138 manual-working farmers. Data were collected using modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment score sheet. Different factors influencing MSDs were detected using logistic regression methods. The highest occurrence rate for MSDs was observed in the lower back (71.4%), followed by fingers (62.1%), shoulders (56.4%), and hands/wrists (55%). Factors such as age, gender, daily working hours, hand dominance, perceived fatigue, and work experience were found to be associated with MSDs in one or more upper body regions. The outcome of multinomial regression showed that gender is the most influencing factor for MSDs in all upper body regions except the shoulders. The outcomes of study indicate high occurrence of MSDs among manual-working farmers and highlight the significance of individual and work-related factors.

KEYWORDS:

• Agriculture
• farmers
• logistic models
• low back pain
• risk factors

Acknowledgments

The corresponding author is thankful to the Ministry of Human Resource Department (MHRD) India for providing fellowship for doing this research work and grateful to the co-authors for their suggestions at every stage of this study. The authors thank the anonymous referees for their valuable comments, which have improved the contents and format of this article. The authors gratefully acknowledge Dr KB Rana for providing some valuable suggestions and for correcting English grammar in this article.

Funding

There is no specific funding from any provider source for this study.