Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Case Study

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Farming is a physically arduous occupation that places farm workers at potential risk of musculoskeletal disorders, which has been observed to impose a greater impact on health of agricultural workers. Each activity in agriculture brings about certain stress and strain on bones and muscles leading to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). Disorders of the musculoskeletal system represent a main cause for absence from occupational work and may lead to considerable costs for the agricultural workers.
Specific disorders of the musculoskeletal system may relate to different body regions and occupational work. Disorders in the lower back are often correlated to lifting and carrying of loads. Upper-limb disorders (at fingers, hands, wrists, …show more content…

The purpose of analyzing musculoskeletal problems in agricultural work was to know about the risk factors dangerous to health so that these can be avoided or diminished. The data of research can also be used while designing work and work environment or for preparing information materials and training programs which would be helpful in reducing musculoskeletal disorders, increase the efficiency of work and reduce costs on treatment of ailments occurring due to …show more content…

Training should also be given to community leaders who can act as health educators or promoters. This can prove to be one of the effective ways of educating and empowering the community. Knowledge regarding safe work methods, work practices, improved tools and equipment etc. can help decrease musculoskeletal disorders. Promotion strategies might also be used to increase the adoption of safe practices among farmers. The working and living conditions also require improvement to decrease occupational risks for farmworkers.
Although basic and applied research is needed to identify, evaluate and develop control strategies for specific agriculture work related musculoskeletal disorders and to assure their practicality and usability in work places. Management of MSDs in agriculture can be done by application of engineering controls, administrative controls and use of properly designed ergonomic equipment. Further, area specific research is needed to identify material handling jobs in agriculture work with high risk of back injury and pathophysiologic mechanisms of chronic musculoskeletal injury for developing safe work

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