The influence of occupational and non-occupational factors on the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in users of portable computers

Abstract

Introduction. Portable computers are becoming an increasingly common main work tool; however, they are not properly adapted to the workstation. Musculoskeletal complaints are a very frequent complaint reported by workers who use computers in their work. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and intensity of pain in the musculoskeletal system in workers who regularly use a portable computer in their work and to determine the influence of working conditions and duration of work with a portable computer. Material and methods. The study covered 300 workers. Musculoskeletal complaints were assessed with the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire complemented with a visual analogue scale. Working conditions was assessed with a questionnaire developed as part of the study. Results and conclusions. The most prevalent faults in the organization of workstations were lack of a computer desk with an adjustable keyboard tray/ drawer, no adjustment of chair armrests and no possibility to use an additional keyboard. The most frequent complaints among computer operators were headaches, low-back pain and neck pain. The use of an additional keyboard reduced the intensity of shoulder pain. © 2010, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.