Implementation of neck/shoulder exercises for pain relief among industrial workers: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Although leisure-time physical activity is important for health, adherence to regular exercise is challenging for many adults. The workplace may provide an optimal setting to reach a large proportion of the adult population needing regular physical exercise. This study evaluates the effect of implementing strength training at the workplace on non-specific neck and shoulder pain among industrial workers. Methods: Cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 537 adults from occupations with high prevalence of neck and shoulder pain (industrial production units). Participants were randomized to 20 weeks of high-intensity strength training for the neck and shoulders three times a week (n = 282) or a control group receiving advice to stay physically active (n = 255). The strength training program followed principles of progressive overload and periodization. The primary outcome was changes in self-reported neck and shoulder pain intensity (scale 0-9).

Health-related effects of early part-time sick leave due to musculoskeletal disorders: a randomized controlled trial

“…Evidence increasingly supports the positive effects of staying active instead of bed rest in the treatment of MSD and associated disability (3,4).…”

Stretch breaks in the work setting improve flexibility and grip strength and reduce musculoskeletal complaints

“…Strength training relying on principles of progressive overload implemented in workers also reduces neck and shoulder pain (Zebis et al, 2011). Sundstrup et al (Sundstrup et al, 2013 demonstrated that workplace initiatives reduce musculoskeletal pain among employees who perform repetitive and forceful work with their arms, shoulders and hands.…”

“…WHP programs include employee education, modified workspace designs, adjusting work habits and promoting exercise, stretches and short rest breaks. The physiologic benefits of a stretch break program include reduced intervertebral disc pressure, increased blood flow, reductions in muscle lactic acid and increased attention (Andersen et al, 2012;Balci & Aghazadeh, 2003;Cheema et al, 2013;Varatharajan et al, 2014;Zebis et al, 2011).…”

Usporedba dviju fizioterapijskih metoda kod nespecifične boli u vratu

“…21 Trening snage u trajanju od 20 tjedana, jedan sat tjedno, znatno smanjuje bol kod že-na u uredu 19 ili muškaraca u industriji. 3 Učestalo se bol u mišiću liječi vježbama snage okolnih, nebolnih mišića, a dokazano je i da jaki trening snage na bolnom miši-ću u vratu dovodi do smanjenja boli. 22 Isti tretman ne djeluje na žene, odnosno navedena je mogućnost nastanka komplikacija kod sudionica.…”