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. 2011:4:287-96.
doi: 10.2147/JPR.S22281. Epub 2011 Sep 14.

Poor sitting posture and a heavy schoolbag as contributors to musculoskeletal pain in children: an ergonomic school education intervention program

Ai Syazwan  1 , Mn Mohamad Azhar, Ar Anita, Hs Azizan, Ms Shaharuddin, J Muhamad Hanafiah, Aa Muhaimin, Am Nizar, B Mohd Rafee, A Mohd Ibthisham, Adam Kasani
Affiliations

Poor sitting posture and a heavy schoolbag as contributors to musculoskeletal pain in children: an ergonomic school education intervention program

Ai Syazwan et al. J Pain Res. 2011.

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate a multidisciplinary, interventional, ergonomic education program designed to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems by reducing schoolbag weight and correcting poor sitting posture.

Methods: Data were collected twice before and twice following intervention using the Standardized Nordic Body Map Questionnaire, a rapid upper limb assessment for posture evaluation, and schoolbag weight measurement in children aged 8 and 11 years attending two schools within the central region of Malaysia.

Results: Students who received the ergonomic intervention reported significant improvements in their sitting posture in a classroom environment and reduction of schoolbag weight as compared with the controls.

Conclusion: A single-session, early intervention, group ergonomics education program for children aged 8 and 11 years is appropriate and effective, and should be considered as a strategy to reduce musculoskeletal pain among schoolchildren in this age group.

Keywords: assessment; awareness; education; ergonomic; intervention; musculoskeletal pain; school children.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Ergonomic health promotion package. (a) Pamphlet, (b) video compact disc, and (c) exercise and training session.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Intervention program and assessment of experimental and control groups.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Mean (standard error) EAT score for E group and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 8 years. Abbreviations: EAT, ergonomic awareness test; E, experimental; Cx, control.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Mean (standard error) schoolbag weight for E group and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 8 years. Abbreviations: E, experimental; Cx, control.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Mean (standard error) RULA score between E and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 8 years. Abbreviations: RULA, rapid upper limb assessment; E, experimental; Cx, control.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Mean (standard error) EAT score between E and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 11 years. Abbreviations: EAT, ergonomic awareness test; E, experimental; Cx, control.
Figure 7
Figure 7
Mean (standard error) schoolbag weight between E and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 11 years. Abbreviations: E, experimental; Cx, control.
Figure 8
Figure 8
Mean (standard error) RULA score between E and Cx groups of schoolchildren aged 11 years. Abbreviations: RULA, rapid upper limb assessment; E, experimental; Cx, control.
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