Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Computer Users

Computer-related musculoskeletal disorders continue to increase in both developed and developing nations, as a result of increase of number of computer users. The objective of this study was to determine the pattern and factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among computer users. The descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out using a structured questionnaire among 305 computer users, aged 20 to 40 years, in two areas in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Neck and finger pain were found to be the highest complaints with 61.3% and 41.3%, respectively. About two fifths (38.4%) of the respondents complained of low back pain followed by shoulder pain (26.6%). Most of the subjects complained of pain which was mild and temporary in nature. A statistically significant association was observed between musculoskeletal disorders with longer duration and incorrect position of computer use. Computer users are encouraged to get a formal training and use of proper ergonomical set up for computer workstation through occupational health and safety services.