A systematic review on computer usage among employees and its impact on musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

Abstract

An insight into occupational stress enlightens on both contributing factors as well as their management. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are prevalent across a wide range of occupations, accounting for 42 - 58% of all work-related disorders. Computer users, in particular suffer from poor working postures often resulting in MSDs. This review article examines the prevalence and risk factors for MSDs amongst them. Remedial measures for combating stress and musculoskeletal problems have also been addressed. In this article, extensive search of PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus were utilized in 2017. Studies conducted in India were also included. All publications which accounted for musculoskeletal disorders with respect to prevalence and/or risk factors in various professions involving computer usage were selected. Of these, 33 articles, which met the inclusion criteria, were analyzed. The study reveals that high prevalence of MSD among computer professionals in different fields. The highest impact has been observed on the neck region followed by the lower back. Factors like prolonged computer usage without regular breaks and inappropriate postures, and female gender are largely responsible for high percentage of musculoskeletal disorders. This analysis indicates computer workers are at huge risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Further probing, especially with respect to specific type of computer usage and working style would enlighten on the key concerns. Furthermore, application of ergonomic principles would decrease/diminish the risk of musculoskeletal impairment and associated disorders in computer work based individuals.

Keywords

Computer usage, Musculoskeletal disorders, Prevalence, Risk factors. 

Cite this Article
Rajinder Kumar Moom, Lakhwinder Pal
Singh. A systematic review on computer
usage among employees and its impact on
musculoskeletal disorders. Journal of
Industrial Safety Engineering. 2017; 4(3):
43–54p.