Factors Affecting Musculoskeletal Disorders among Primary School Teachers in Ismailia, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include a wide variety of inflammatory and degenerative disorders that affect muscles, joints, tendons, and other parts of the musculoskeletal system. Prolonged exposure to unfavorable working conditions and postures during teaching becomes a risk factor for MSD that makes them prevalent health issue affecting 40 – 95% of teachers. Objective: To determine the frequency of MSDs and their associated risk factors among teachers in primary schools in Ismailia city, Egypt. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. The sample included 237 primary school teachers who have been working for at least 2 years. The questionnaire included questions about socio-demographic data, work-related data, and standardized Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ). Results: 237 primary school teachers with a mean age of 34.6 ± 5.5, females represent 53% of the sample, and 71% were married. Prevalence of any MSDs in the last 12 months was 87.3%, the most affected regions were the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Risk factors for MSDs were age > 35 years, bending for a long time, turning around frequently and lacking enough rest time between sessions was a protective factor. Conclusions: Teachers are at increased risk of MSDs due to their professional requirements that involve prolonged static postures and awkward postures such as bending, twisting, and head-down postures. The most affected region was the lower back. Ergonomic programs should focus on teachers including their training about the ideal use of muscles and the prevention of prolonged awkward postures.