Prevalence and related factors of musculoskeletal discomfort among Thai-massagers

Abstract

Objective: Ergonomic hazard is very obvious in Thai-massage profession. This study aim to find out the prevalence and related factors of musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) in a Thai-massage profession.

Method: The study design was a cross-sectional descriptive study. A survey was conducted in August to December, 2010. Three hundred and twenty two Thai-massage workers employed in 13 selected Thai massageparlor (providing health massage), located in Bangkok, were included in this study. The subjects were asked to complete questionnaires concerning occupational factors, non-occupational factors and musculoskeletal discomfort. The symptom survey was modified from Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. They were then systematically measured for individual anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness.

Result: Regarding overall MSD (symptoms in at least one body part) in Thai-massage workers, the lifetime prevalence and 12-month prevalence were 96.6 and 93.2% respectively. The most prevalent body part was shoulders. Thumbs and low back were subsequently prevalent. Statistically significant factors related to MSD in Thai-massage workers were female gender, age over 40 years, BMI of 25 or greater and wrist squareness ratio of 0.7 or greater. Occupational factors related to MSD were practice with foot massage stick, practice with foot massage chair, type of massage parlor which mainly provided foot massage services and larger size of massage parlor (more than 30 massage workers employed.) Conclusion: The MSD was prevalent in Thai-massage profession. It also prevalent in all body parts. Thai-massage workers should concern more on the prevention of work-related MSD.

Key words: Prevalence, Musculoskeletal discomfort, Thai-massage workers