A comparison of occupational groups using different working postures in terms of their low back and neck health status

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To compare how disability, fear of movement, psychosocial status and quality of life are affected in terms of low back-neck health status in three occupational groups using different work postures.

METHOD:

Three hundred thirty-nine individuals participated in this study from the following three different occupational groups: group A, where the individuals worked in a prolonged sitting position (secretaries), group B, where the individuals performed dynamic activities in a standing position (cleaning workers) and group C, where the individuals worked in a prolonged standing position (private security officers). The participants were evaluated by Million Visual Analog Scale, Neck Disability Index, Oswestry Disability Index, Nottingham Health Profile, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale.

RESULTS:

It was found that disability, emotional status and the quality of life were minimally affected, but kinesiophobia was increased in all of the occupational groups. In the group C, low back pain disability, quality of life and fear of movement were more affected than the other groups ( $p<$ 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

For the occupational groups with long working years, the presence of kinesiophobia should be considered and cognitive-behavioural treatment methods should be recommended. In cleaning workers, low back pain is an important risk factor. Therefore, its awareness should be increased, and preventive programmes should be offered.