The Investigation of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Ergonomic Risk Factors in Early Intervention Educators

• Main Authors: Chen Yi Cheng, 程臻怡
• Other Authors: H. Y. Cheng
• Format: Others
• Published: 2011
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/65951504492635179254

碩士 === 長庚大學 === 早期療育研究所 === 99 === 【Background】Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) have become increasingly common in health-related professionals. Early intervention educators may be confronted with ergonomic risk factors which may lead to musculoskeletal disorder. However work-related musculoskeletal disorders have been overlooked in this population in Taiwan.【Purpose】The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among early intervention educator, and to evaluate the relationship between work-related musculoskeletal disorders and subject demographics plus ergonomics risk factors within this population.【Method】A self-designed questionnaire was delivered to educators who work in early intervention institution in Taiwan. The questionnaire fell in 3 domains:demographics, work-related musculoskeletal disorder, and the ergonomic risk factors.【Result】Four hundred and seventeen questionnaires were been mailed out with 323 valid returns.The results revealed that early intervention educators suffered from high percentage (94.1%) of work–related musculoskeletal disorders.The top three most affected body regions were: shoulder (80.6%), lower back (79.3%), and neck (70.1%).Whether subject assisted in rehabilitation (OR=5.57) was most significant predictor for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. When there were other colleagues assisting in same class, the risk of getting neck symptoms decreased.Work days per week, years of practice as early intervention educators, carry out feeding, assist in toileting, performing rehabilitation techniques were significant predictors for regional symptoms. In addition, knowledge regarding muscle strengthening was the most warranted (26.5%).【Conclusion】The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders was high among early intervention educators, and it might have negative impact on this occupation. The results provide early intervention educators and institution knowledge in work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Hopefully this can bring more attention to early intervention career-related health issues, and facilitate forming injury prevention strategies, such as training course for proper body mechanics and work environmental modification.