Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among upholsterers in Poland
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among upholsterers in Poland

Summary/Abstract: Background: The number of individuals with work-related musculoskeletal disorders is increasing in Poland. Aim of the study: This study aimed to analyze and evaluate pain symptoms among upholsterers and compare these ailments with a group of employees who do not perform physical work. It also examined the associations between pain intensity and frequency with age, length of employment, and somatic characteristics in both research groups. Material and methods: Ninety-four men were examined, including 50 upholsterers and 44 non-physical workers, who were the control group. Pain location was assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, pain intensity in the lower back was measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the frequency of lower back pain was determined using the Jackson-Moskowitz Scale. Participants also provided information relating to age, length of employment, and education. Body mass and height were measured. Results: Among the study participants, 94% of the upholsterers and 73% of the control group experienced pain in at least one area of the body. The largest percentage of the study participants from both groups reported pain in the lower back. Upholsterers experienced pain in their elbow joints and hands/wrists significantly more often than the control group. The control group experienced pain in the upper back, neck, and hip joints significantly more often than upholsters. Significant positive correlations were found between age and length of employment and the VAS and Jackson-Moskowitz Scale results in both groups. Conclusions: The locations of pain complaints in the group of upholsterers and in the group of employees who did not perform physical work differed. In both groups, lower back pain predominated. Working as an upholsterer promoted pain in the elbow joints and wrists/hands. Performing mental and mixed work was associated with neck, upper back, and hip/thigh pain. Future studies should aim to assess the prevalence and analyze the risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

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