Relationship between Perceived Work-Related Stress and the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Healthcare Personnel in Secondary-Level Hospitals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/asce.v4i4.486Keywords:
musculoskeletal pain; occupational stress; health.Abstract
The present study aims to establish the relationship between perceived occupational stress and musculoskeletal pain among healthcare personnel working in private second-level hospitals. It includes factors such as the length of time working in the healthcare field, the types of tasks performed, and time pressure, all of which generate high levels of stress. Using a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach, two validated instruments were applied. The results showed a high prevalence of pain in the neck (56%), lumbar region (46%), and dorsal region (36%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between occupational stress and chronic musculoskeletal pain (in the past 12 months), with a p-value of 0.003. However, no relationship was found between stress and recent pain (in the past 7 days), suggesting that occupational stress has a cumulative effect on musculoskeletal health; these findings highlight the need for ergonomic interventions and stress management programs, particularly targeting new employees. Furthermore, it is recommended that longitudinal studies be conducted to better establish the causal relationship between occupational stress and MSDs, taking into account that both physical and psychosocial factors must be addressed jointly to improve the occupational health of healthcare personnel.
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