3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders have multifactorial etiology, primarily caused by prolonged exposure to physical risk factors, including awkward postures, repetitions, and forceful exertions. These disorders can significantly affect worker’s health and work performance. However, the literature regarding the risk factors of the lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders is generally under-represented. This study aims to identify the relative importance of the risk factors that lead to the development of each lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The research method was based on a questionnaire and interviews with ten health experts, namely: two orthopedists, two occupational doctors, four physiotherapists and two physiotherapists/osteopaths. The application of the questionnaire highlighted the difficulty in objectively characterizing the importance degree of the risk factors. Nevertheless, the interviews were quite relevant to complement the information regarding the most common risk factors contributing to the development of lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Overall, the expert's feedback indicates that workers exposed to prolonged standing work involving static postures are substantially more likely to develop lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The information gathered will be used in developing an assessment model to predict the possibility of developing lower limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOccupational and Environmental Safety and Health V
EditorsPedro M. Arezes, Rui B. Melo, Paula Carneiro, Jacqueline Castelo Branco, Ana Colim, Nélson Costa, Susana Costa, Joana Duarte, Joana C. Guedes, Gonçalo Perestrelo, J. Santos Baptista
Place of PublicationCham
PublisherSpringer
Pages187-203
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)978-3-031-38277-2
ISBN (Print)978-3-031-38276-5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

Publication series

NameStudies in Systems, Decision and Control
PublisherSpringer
Volume492
ISSN (Print)2198-4182
ISSN (Electronic)2198-4190

Keywords

  • Ergonomic risk analysis
  • Lower extremity
  • Occupational disorders
  • Prolonged standing

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