Risk Factors, Clinical Features and Outcome of Treatment of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in On-Site Clinics in Indian IT Companies

Introduction
Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD’s) are a constellation of disorders common in computer users which involves muscle, fascia, tendon and/or neurovascular structures of neck and upper limb; also affects other body parts. In India, several epidemiological studies have reported prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in 75% of Information Technology (IT) workers. The primary aim of this study is to analyse risk factors, clinical features and outcome of treatment in onsite clinics.

Methods
In this prospective study demographic and workstation data was extracted from IT professionals who took appointment for the on-site clinic. Based on Physician’s diagnosis, the employees received a treatment using a sequenced treatment protocol developed by RECOUP Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Centre, called the “SHARAN'S® Protocol”. This is an acronym of Skilled Hands-on Approach for Release of myofascia, Articular, Neural and Soft-tissue mobilisation.

Results
The study covered 4069 IT Professionals with a median age of 29 ± 5.28 years. 52.1% of participants were desktop users and 41.3% were laptop users. The ergonomic risk factors identified were poor office ergonomics (53.5%) such as lack of keyboard tray (30%), lack of mouse tray (40%), lack of foot rest (50%), and improper monitor height (75%). In terms of clinical features of WRMSD, Myofascial Pain syndrome (48.3%) and neck pain (64.8%) were the commonest diagnosis and symptom respectively.The participants were asked to rate if they felt satisfied with the treatment (SHARAN’s protocol). 95% of employees reported no pain and they were extremely satisfied at the end of the treatment.

Discussion
The on-site clinic discussed in this study is unique because of the comprehensive methodology of assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up that it provides to the employees at their workplace. On-site employee health clinics are recommended for the effective prevention and management of WRMSD in view of the high prevalence of successful outcomes seen in this study.