The relationship between musculoskeletal symptoms, postures and the fit between workers' anthropometrics and their computer workstation configuration

Abstract

Objective: Awkward postures during computer use are assumed to be related to the fit between the worker and the workstation configuration, with greater mismatches leading to higher levels of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). The objective of this study was to examine if chronic MSS of the neck/shoulder, back, and wrist/hands was associated with 1) discrepancies between workstation setups and worker anthropometrics and 2) workers' postures.

Participants: Secondary analysis on data collected from a randomized controlled cross-over design trial (N=74).

Method: Subjects' workstation configurations, baseline levels of MSS, working postures, and anthropometrics were measured. Correlations were completed to determine the association between postures and discrepancies between the worker anthropometrics and workstation configuration. Associations were examined between postures, workstation discrepancies and worker MSS.

Results: There were only 3 significant associations between worker posture and MSS, and 3 significant associations between discrepancies in worker/workstation set-up and MSS.

Conclusion: The relationship between chronic MSS and the workers computer workstation configuration is multifactorial. While postures and the fit between the worker and workstation may be associated with MSS, other variables need to be explored to better understand the phenomenon.

Keywords: Computer workstation; ergonomics; musculoskeletal discomfort; workstation assessment.