Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Upper Limb Disorders and Low Back Pain Among Informal Workers of Hand-Operated Rebar Benders

摘要

Hand-operated rebar bender work involves physical exertion and repetitive movement of upper extremities that may cause upper limb disorders (ULDs) and low back pain (LBP). This cross-sectional analytic study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for ULDs and LBP among hand-operated rebar benders. Data were collected from 241 workers through questionnaires, lighting measurements, and physical fitness test. Risk factors were indicated by multiple logistic regression analysis using adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) at p < 0.05. During the 12 months up to data collection the highest prevalence of ULDs occurred at the wrists/hands (78.8%) and shoulders (46.9%). LBP prevalence was 68.9%. The risk factors significantly associated with wrists/hands pain were poor grip strength (ORadj = 2.69), smoking (ORadj = 4.44), work experience >5 years (ORadj = 2.34). The significant risk factors for LBP were age ≥ 50 years (ORadj = 1.88), work experience >5 years (ORadj = 1.89), and work hours ≥ 8 h/day (ORadj = 3.44). Risk factors for shoulders pain were workdays >5 days/week, work discomfort (SWI ≥ 2), work experience >5 years. The findings of risk factors are useful as a basis for surveillance to prevent occupational diseases among informal workers.