Prevalence and related factors of lower extremity musculoskeletal discomfort among Thai caddies

Abstract

Background: Due to the promotion of Thai golf industry in accordance with the current national tourism policy, number of caddies in Thailand has been increasing. While they work in high ergonomic risk condition, few is known about musculoskeletal problem among them.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and related factors of lower extremity musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) among population of Thai caddies.

Method: 2,882 participants, from 15 golf courses, were included in a cross-sectional descriptive study. Information about personal demographics, occupational and non-occupational factors, and the presence of MSD were collected by a set of self-reported questionnaires including the Thai version of Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. The magnitude of the MSD was calculated and presented as 7-day and 12-month prevalences. The association between factors and outcomes were determined by multiple logistic regression and presented by the adjusted odds ratios and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results: The 7-day and 12-month prevalence of lower extremity MSD were highest in the region of calves, ankles, and feet (35.6% and 37.4%) followed by knees region (33.4% and 34.8%). In the past 12-month period, about 13% of caddies had at least once of sick leave or limited daily activities due to lower extremity MSD. Factors associated with 7-day and 12-month MSD were mostly non-occupational, including age, BMI, having at least 1 underlying disease, and doing other activities, while type of golf course and frequency of working more than 18 holes per day were occupation factors associated with lower extremity MSD.

Conclusion: The prevalence of MSD in Thai caddies is considered high. MSD prevention measures are essential and urgent for Thai caddies in order to work safely and healthy.

Keywords: Golf, Caddy, Health hazards, Ergonomic, Musculoskeletal Discomfort