Prevalence and symptomatology of musculoskeletal problems reported by home care service workers caring for the elderly1

Prevalencia y sintomatología músculo-esquelética auto-referida por los trabajadores del servicio de apoyo domiciliario en la prestación de atención a personas mayores

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) develop gradually and result from professional risk factors such as the repetition of tasks, emotional overburden, inadequate posture, excessive strain, and individual and organizational/psychosocial risks. The aim of this study was to identify prevalence and symptomatology of musculoskeletal problems reported by home care service workers caring for the elderly. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used for the purpose. The sample contained 86 workers. The results show a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in different anatomical areas, affecting in particular the upper limbs and the lumbar, dorsal and cervical areas. There are also some important associations between the dorsal area and the lifting of patients weighing above 90 kg. It may be concluded that these workers run a considerable risk of acquiring musculoskeletal injuries as a result of their working conditions and from the ways in which their activities are currently performed.