Investigating the prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among farmers

Abstract

Background: Farming is an occupation that predisposes to serious health problems affecting the musculoskeletal system. Objective This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors affecting musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in farmers. Methods: With a sample size of 1552 participants, this study was drawn from 17,500 farmers registered to the farmers' association. We recorded their demographic information and used the Occupational Data Form to evaluate farmers' workload and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess musculoskeletal symptoms. Results: Of the 1552 farmers who participated in our study, 1216 were male (78.35%), and 336 were female (21.65%), and their mean age was 49.02 +/- 11.94 and 47.80 +/- 10.99 years, respectively. 70% were involved in livestock farming, 29% in agriculture farming, and 1% in both. The three body parts with the highest prevalence rates of MSDs were the lower back (47.5%), knee (23.5%), and ankle/feet (23.2%). It was determined that agriculture farming was associated with musculoskeletal symptoms, especially in the neck, elbow, upper back, lower back, and knee, and female gender, body mass index, type of farming, daily weightlifting, weekly working hours, and stress were risk factors associated with MSDs (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The continuation of traditional farming activities necessitates the identification of potential MSDs. The results of our study are crucial in identifying the risk factors associated with musculoskeletal problems and guiding preventive physiotherapy practices, such as workplace exercises.