A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Ergonomic Training Intervention in Reducing the Risk of Musculoskeletal Disorder

Background: Ergonomic training is the most widely used intervention in addressing the issue of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). However, its effectiveness is uncertain. This systematic review provides a narrative synthesis of up-to-date randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of already conducted ergonomic training interventions at workplaces to reduce the risk of MSD among computer users with a view to provide evidence on its effectiveness and thus inform policy on improvement of work practises. Methods: Searches for RCTs were conducted on 15 databases, journals and grey literatures between March and September 2014 and retrieved studies were exported to Refworks. After application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, out of 33 studies appraised, 13 studies ranging from average to high quality based on the methodology and results were included in the review. Included studies were critically screened and extracted data were narratively synthesized. Results: The synthesis of included studies showed statistically significant reduction in MSDs in the neck, shoulder, fingers, wrist, elbow/forearm, lower back, upper back, foot and trunk. One study recorded a reduction in symptoms such as cervicothoracic myalgia, numbness, weakness and nocturnal exacerbation, though not statistically significant. While reduced effects were widely reported across studies, it was not maintained at long-term follow-up in some studies. Findings suggest that the method of training delivery influenced the duration of effects across the studies. Conclusion: Findings suggest that ergonomic training interventions are effective in reducing the risk of MSDs. However, across the studies, the method of training delivery influenced the long-term and short-term effects. Computer users who experience MSDs may benefit on a long-term basis from ergonomic training interventions designed to visually engage, instigate participation and offer application assistance/supervision. However, this review identified areas for further research into the impact of ergonomic training interventions on absence from work and productivity.

Author(s): Abasiama Bassey Etuknwa and Sharon Humpheries

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