Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and their association with the work-related characteristics among university teachers in Taiwan: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background:

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are highly prevalent among university teachers, yet data on their symptom profiles and associated work-related factors remain sparse.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the symptom profiles and work-related predictors of WMSDs among university teachers in Taiwan and to describe coping measures that may alleviate discomfort.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey involving 295 full-time university teachers was conducted using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) through convenience sampling between April and May 2022. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were used to investigate associations between WMSDs and work-related factors. Spearman's ρ was used to assess correlations between WMSD prevalence and severity.

Results:

WMSDs were reported by 88.81% of respondents, with the four most affected areas being the shoulders, neck, upper back, and waist/lower back. Among the participants with the four major sites of WMSDs, nearly 90% reported their symptoms interfered with their work performance; however, one-third chose to ignore the discomfort. Sitting for eight or more hours per day was significantly related to discomfort in shoulders (adjusted Odds Ratios [AOR] = 2.14). Having an average of only one day off per week was significantly related to discomfort in waist/ lower back (AOR = 2.96).

Conclusions:

The overall prevalence of WMSDs is high among university teachers. Work-related factors significantly associated with regional WMSDs included having an average of only one day off per week and prolonged periods of sitting. Findings warrant the attention of policy-makers in developing preventive measures targeting these factors to reduce the burden of WMSDs.