An analysis on neck and upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms in Portuguese automotive assembly line workers

Main Article Content

M. Guerreiro
F. Serranheira
E. B. Cruz
A. Sousa-Uva

Abstract

Assembly lines are related to health risks and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD), particularly of the neck and upper limbs (WULMSD). The assessment of perceived musculoskeletal symptoms is essential to WULMSD prevention, but studies in this field are lacking. A cross sectional survey on assembly line workers (n=270) was performed. The objective of this study was to analyze the frequency and distribution of upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms in assembly line workers. Participants were predominantly men, with ages between 30 and 40 years. Neck and upper limbs pain/discomfort were the most reported symptoms (35.9%), with intensity predominantly moderate or severe. General Health Status and past musculoskeletal injury were the variables more related to the existence of musculoskeletal symptoms; longer working life in the same company, as under 5 years, were related to higher intensity of symptoms. An early identification of musculoskeletal symptoms and health surveillance over time is of most importance to develop WRULMSD prevention measures.

Article Details

Author Biographies

M. Guerreiro, Universidade Nova de Lisboa

Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública
Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Lisboa
Portugal

F. Serranheira, Universidade Nova de Lisboa

Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública
Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Lisboa
Portugal

E. B. Cruz, Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal

Escola Superior de Saúde
Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal
Setúbal
Portugal

A. Sousa-Uva, Universidade Nova de Lisboa

Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública
Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Lisboa
Portugal