Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Associated Risk Factors Among Professional Drivers in Chromepet, Chengalpattu District: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study finds that professional drivers in Chromepet suffer high rates of back and shoulder pain, with long work hours and job duration increasing the risk.

Contribution

The study identifies specific risk factors like prolonged working hours and job duration linked to musculoskeletal disorders in professional drivers.

Findings

Most drivers reported chronic pain in upper back, lower back, shoulders, and neck.

Drivers working 12-16 hours daily had significantly higher odds of neck, upper back, and lower back pain.

Longer job duration was associated with increased risk of upper and lower back pain.

Abstract

Background

Professional drivers frequently suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to prolonged sitting, poor posture, repetitive movements, and exposure to whole-body vibrations. These factors contribute to pain and discomfort, commonly affecting the shoulders, limbs, back, and neck. Professional drivers are particularly vulnerable because of extended driving hours, exposure to vibration, and awkward postures. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence and patterns of musculoskeletal morbidity among professional drivers and to identify the factors influencing its occurrence.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 264 professional drivers in the Chromepet area. Participants were recruited through travel agencies, and data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire that included sociodemographic details, personal habits, work characteristics, and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess pain distribution. Descriptive data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, and logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with MSDs.

Results

The study population consisted of 249 (94.32%) males and 15 (5.68%) females. Chronic pain was most commonly reported in the upper back (213; 80.7%), lower back (210; 79.5%), shoulders (208; 78.8%), and neck (203; 76.9%). Prolonged daily shift hours significantly increased the risk of musculoskeletal pain, with those working 12-16 hours having the highest odds for neck pain (OR = 11.73, p = 0.006), upper back pain (OR = 23.93, p = 0.001), and lower back pain (OR = 8.53, p = 0.010). Longer job duration was also associated with increased risk of upper and lower back pain.

Conclusion

The prevalence of MSDs among professional drivers in Chromepet is high, particularly in the back and shoulder regions. Longer job duration and extended working hours significantly increase the risk of developing MSDs. These findings highlight the need for targeted ergonomic interventions and health promotion strategies to reduce the burden of MSDs among professional drivers.