musculoskeletal-pain-in-construction-workers

Musculoskeletal Pain in Construction Workers

Construction work is a physically demanding job that can take a real toll on the body over the years. Lifting materials, carrying tool bags, swinging hammers, climbing roofs and all the other daily tasks that come along with working construction can lead to a variety of issues. Neck pain, low back pain, forearm and elbow pain, and leg pain are all common complaints seen in the office. Some of the goals in treating pain related to work injuries include reducing muscle spasm, increasing range of motion, strengthening, and correct postural issues. This can be accomplished through chiropractic, physical therapy and massage therapy.

This study looked at the reported pain in 389 construction workers in Saudi Arabia. Clinical interviews were conducted with the workers and musculoskeletal complaints were documented. They found through the study that a substantial number of workers experienced pain including neck, low back, shoulder, leg and foot pain. See the included abstract for percentages related to each condition reported.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Building Construction Workers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract:

Objectives: To investigate the work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among building construction workers. Methods: Total 389 apparently healthy, male volunteers were selected with mean age 34.56±8.33 years and a mean working duration in building construction as 5.76±2.68 years. Musculoskeletal complaints were recorded through a detailed clinical interview and comprehensive questionnaire. Results: Substantial number of building construction workers developed musculoskeletal symptoms including neck pain 29 (7.5%), shoulder pain 41(10.5%), upper back pain 24(6.2%), lower back pain 64 (16.5%), legs pain 93 (23.9%), feet pain 52 (13.4%), head heaviness 44 (11.3%) and whole body fatigue 78 (20.1%). These complaints were significantly associated with long-term duration-response in building construction industry. Furthermore, cigarette smokers had little higher percentage of musculoskeletal complaints compared to non-smoker companions.

Conclusions:

Building construction occupation is a prolific source of musculoskeletal ailments and complaints were significantly increased with long-term working duration in building construction industry. PubMed