Workplace Psychosocial Factors and Their Association With Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies

Abstract

This systematic review examines literature regarding the relationship between workplace psychosocial factors and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of work disability, resulting in billions of dollars of financial losses. Evidence suggests that workplace psychosocial factors can lead to the development and progression of MSDs. A data search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) from August 2009 to May 2020 inclusive. Other eligibility criteria included studies published in English, conducted on adults within a workplace setting, conducted in developed economies, and were stability-control longitudinal observational studies. Studies were independently screened for eligibility, using COVIDENCE (software for managing and streamlining systematic reviews) and assessed for quality by multiple authors, using the JBI Evidence synthesis tool. From 6,812 studies, 47 articles were included in the final analysis. The most common MSDs investigated were lower back pain, neck and shoulder pain, and upper extremity symptoms and disorders. Included articles identified that psychosocial workplace factors of support, collaboration, job control, and job demands were statistically significantly associated with risk and progression of MSDs. Review of the articles included in this article supports the theory that MSDs have a multifactorial, complex etiology that includes psychosocial factors. Interventions to enhance psychosocial work environment provide opportunities to reduce the risk of MSDs.

Hidden risk factors and the mediating role of sleep in work-related musculoskeletal discomforts

“…Li et al [ 41 ], Constructed a Bayesian model demonstrating the direct effect of job stress on MSDs. Evidence shows that job stress is a hidden risk factor for developing MSDs [ 42 ]. Furthermore, psychological stress can lead to the ongoing release of catechol amines and cortisol, potentially impeding the process of musculoskeletal healing [ 43 ].…”

Effects of Intradermal Therapy (Mesotherapy) on Bilateral Cervicobrachial Pain

“…Musculoskeletal pain and physical disability can reduce social functioning and absorb a large amount of health and social care resources with a well-known economic impact. In fact, it has been estimated that musculoskeletal disease accounts for 50% of absence from work and 60% of permanent work incapacity [3].…”

“…A study conducted in 2020 by Urits et al stated that the prevalence of myofascial pain syndrome among patients presenting to medical clinics due to pain ranges anywhere from 30 to 93% [9]. In addition to non-pharmacological approaches, drugs have traditionally been used to manage musculoskeletal pain disorders to alleviate pain, inflammation, and functional disability [3]. Systemic pharmacological therapy with analgesics and NSAIDs is often associated with adverse effects, some of which can be life-threatening.…”