The impact of different lenses on visual and musculoskeletal complaints in VDU workers with work-related neck complaints: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

ObjectivesThe impact of wearing lenses on visual and musculoskeletal complaints in VDU workers is currently unknown. The goal of this study was 1) to evaluate the impact of wearing VDU lenses on visual fatigue and self-reported neck pain and disability, compared to progressive lenses, and 2) to measure the effect of both lenses on head inclination and pressure pain thresholds during the performance of a VDU task.MethodsThirty-five eligible subjects were randomly assigned to wear progressive VDU lenses (VDU group) (n = 18) or progressive lenses (P group) (n = 17). They were enquired about visual complaints (VFQ), self-perceived pain (NRS) and disability (NDI) at baseline (with old lenses), and 1 week, 3 months and 6 months after wearing their new lenses. In addition, Forward Head Angle (FHA) and PPTs were assessed during and after a VDU task before and 6 months after wearing the new lenses. A short questionnaire concerning the satisfaction about the study lenses was completed at the end of the study.ResultsIn both groups, visual fatigue and neck pain was decreased at 3 and 6 months follow up, compared to baseline. All PPTs were higher during the second VDU task, independent of the type of lenses. The VDU group reported a significantly higher suitability of the lenses for VDU work.ConclusionIt can be concluded that there is little difference in effect of the different lenses on visual and musculoskeletal comfort. Lenses should be adjusted to the task-specific needs and habits of the participant.

Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome and Its Relationship with Ergonomic and Individual Factors in Presbyopic VDT Workers Using Progressive Addition Lenses

“…Additionally, there are several studies that warn that working with VDTs in low light can cause the eyes to tire gradually [4,31,32]. Proper lighting is essential to prevent visual fatigue, which positively contributes to performance, safety, health and well-being at workplace as well as a reduction in work accidents and absenteeism [33].…”

“…Another limitation of our study was not being able to have more characteristics regarding the usual spectacles of the workers; it was only known that they were not occupational lenses and that their power was measured with a lens analyser. Today, PALs with different designs are marketed, with more or less broad fields of vision in intermediate and near vision [70], which could influence both ocular and visual self-reported symptomatology [70,71] and the neck posture adopted by workers, with more or less extension depending on the positive power increase along the corridor [32,72]. The possible effects of other factors that the literature relates to CVS, such as changes in binocular vision [3,7], the state of tear film or the ocular surface [8], or even job stress or exhaustion [9,73] have not been addressed.…”

Management of digital eye strain

“…Studies recommend that refractive errors (such as presbyopia and astigmatism) be appropriately corrected . Computer glasses provide appropriate correction for the viewing distances and angles needed at the computer workstation, have been found to relieve symptoms, and are recommended in the literature …”

The impact of work-related risk factors on the development of neck and upper limb pain among low wage hotel housekeepers in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia: institution-based cross-sectional study

“…There is strong evidence that technical ergonomic measures and several kinds of interventions including organizational and personal measures can reduce the occurrence of neck and upper MSDs [7, 27–32]. However, in most African countries including Ethiopia, little is known about the risk factors associated with neck and upper limb MSDs among hotel housekeepers.…”