Effectiveness of Laboral Kinesiotherapy in Prevention of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders

Analisys of the Effectiveness of Laboral Kinesiotherapy in Prevention of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workers of a University Hospital

ABSTRACT

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are seen as a public health problem, and can often lead to temporary or permanent incapacity to work. Exercises can be indicated to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, allied to ergonomic intervention as a preventive approach. Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze the effects of workplace muscle strengthening kinesiotherapy in the reduction of pain and discomfort in the upper limbs and cervical region perceived by the workers of a university hospital. Methods: After a priori sample size calculation based on pain numeric scale, 166 volunterrs will be recruted and assigned randomly to the "labor kinesiotherapy" group (GCL) or to the "control group" (CG), considering 10% sample size lost and intention to treat. The primary outcomes will be the pain perceived by the Numerical Pain Scale (NDT) and Nordic Questionnaire, and isokinetic muscle strength through the mean peak torque work of shoulder abduction. The discomfort and disability will be evaluated by the PSFS and QuickDASH questionnaires. The Ergonomic Analysis of Work will be evaluated by the manual "Ergonomic Analysis Focused on Activities" - EAFA and application of QEC, RULA, REBA and HARM tools. Statistical analysis will be performed through PASW Statistics ™, version 20.0. The independent sample T test will be used to compare the groups. The Cohen index will be set for the effect size calculation. All analyzes will be conducted with 95% confidence interval and p <0.05 significance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Workers who have or do not have musculoskeletal complaints in the cervical, shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand and / or fingers, without clinical diagnosis and who are not away from their professional activities.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Workers presenting:

  • Pregnancy;
  • Congenital abnormality of the spine and significant musculoskeletal deformities (such as amputation, dysmetria);
  • Severe cervical spine disorders, postoperative conditions in the neck or upper limb region;
  • Uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia, angina or related symptoms, and postural hypotension or other contraindications to exercise;
  • Workers who engage in some form of regular physical activity involving muscle strengthening and endurance exercises.
  • Workers who have a proven diagnosis of upper limb musculoskeletal dysfunction and are undergoing physical therapy treatment.