FACTORS RELATED TO WORK POSTURE (ERGONOMICS) AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS (MSDS) COMPLAINTS

Abstract

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are a globally detrimental occupational health problem, characterized by complaints of muscles, tendons, and joints. Based on the findings, an unergonomic work posture is the main physical risk factor. Forced postures, repetitive movements, and static working durations lead to an increase in mechanical stress. To assess risk objectively, standardized tools such as Reba, Rula, and Owas are used. Effective interventions must be comprehensive, including modification of workstations (Engineering interventions) and the implementation of work rotations and micro-breaks (administrative interventions). Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common occupational health problems in various industry sectors. These complaints include disorders in muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments caused by unergonomic working postures, repetitive movements, and long static work durations. This article presents the results of a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of 20 studies that assessed the relationship between work postures. The results of the synthesis showed a very significant relationship between non-ergonomic posture and an increased prevalence of MSDs, where long working duration and heavy loads amplify the risk. Ergonomic interventions have been shown to be effective in meaningfully lowering postural risk scores and MSDs complaints.