Effect of time related parameters on predisposition of musculoskeletal pain among Indian Information technology professionals

Introduction: Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSD) are common in computer users. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of time related parameters like work experience, duration of computer usage and the periodicity and duration of rest breaks in the predisposition of musculoskeletal pain among Information Technology (IT) professionals. Methodology: Ergonomic workplace analysis reports of 5357 IT professionals from various IT companies in India were reviewed. All the temporal parameters were correlated statistically with perceived pain and discomfort, region of pain and common clinical diagnosis of musculoskeletal disorder. Results: Majority of the respondents were male (71.4%). 2.5% of the workers used the computer for less than 8 hours in a day, 95.8% used it for 8 to 12 hours and remaining used it for more than 12 hours. Prevalence was more among workers who worked more than 8 hours. Neck, low back and wrist were the commonest regions affected respectively.