RISK FACTORS FOR UPPER BODY MUSCULOSKELETAL DISCOMFORTS AMONG COMPUTER USERS IN KENYA

Abstract

The use of computers has been associated with incidences of musculoskeletal discomforts among frequentusers. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal upper body discomfortsamong frequent computer users and to determine the associated risk factors. Data was collected byadministering a modified Nordic questionnaire to 108 respondents of professional work groups from selectedworkplaces in Kenya. Personal characteristics, job and workstation factors were tested to predict theoccurrence of neck, shoulder, upper back, hands/wrists and elbow discomforts. Binary logistic regression wasused to identify the associations between risk factors and outcome variables. Prevalence rates of thediscomforts were: neck (55.6%), shoulder (49.5%), upper back (45.8%), hands/wrists (27.1%) and elbows(16.8%). Neck discomfort (35.0%) and shoulder discomfort (38.8%) were most prevalent among theadministration group, whereas wrists/hands discomfort (33.3%) and upper back discomfort (31.95) wereprevalent among bankers. The study revealed significant associations between the upper bodymusculoskeletal discomforts and some of the potential risk factors. These risk factors were: computer worktime, sitting time, chair cushioned with padded front edge, posture of shoulders whilst keyboarding, genderand unsupported hands/wrists. These findings suggest a widespread burden of upper body musculoskeletaldiscomforts among various professionals principally attributed to recurring exposure to the ergonomic riskfactors. The study recommends that an integrated approach should be adopted by senior management in allworkplaces in the design and implementation of workplace ergonomics programmes aimed at reducingexposure of employees to the risk factors associated with computer work.