This cross-sectional study evaluated the ergonomic risks and occupational symptoms among 35 female nail technicians using the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) and the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ-E).

This clinical cross-sectional study assessed 35 female nail technicians from 14 salons in four districts on the European side of Istanbul (Bahçelievler, Küçükçekmece, Beylikdüzü, and Esenyurt). Data collection included interviews, questionnaires, and ergonomic evaluations. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey and the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ-E) were used to assess symptoms, while ergonomic risks were evaluated using the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) by trained physiatrists. Following the assessments, technicians received ergonomic training on posture correction and risk prevention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female nail technicians aged 18-40 years.
• Actively working as a nail technician for at least six months.
• Willingness to voluntarily participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pre-existing musculoskeletal disease diagnosis.
• Rheumatic or neurological diseases.
• Central sensitization syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome).
• Psychiatric illnesses or mental disorders impeding communication.

The study population consisted of 35 female nail technicians aged between 18 and 40 years, working in 14 manicure salons located across four districts (Bahçelievler, Küçükçekmece, Beylikdüzü, and Esenyurt) on the European side of Istanbul. All participants were actively employed as nail technicians for at least six months and volunteered to participate in the study.