Self-report of neck and shoulder pain by staff of The Open University: a survey

Mandy Banton                                            Supervisor Maria Caunce

Abstract: 

Work-related upper limb disorders are ergonomic somatic conditions caused or aggravated by repetitive or forceful work performed in awkward and/or prolonged positions. Since the widespread introduction of computers to the office environment, an association has been proposed between work involving computing equipment and the development of neck/shoulder pain.

The Open University is the United Kingdom’s largest university, employing around 5000 central staff, most of whom use computing equipment regularly to perform their work.

The study utilises a survey design to investigate the perceptions of Open University staff about neck/shoulder pain and therapeutic interventions tried for it. The study aims to identify the demographic, ergonomic and predisposing factors associated with neck/shoulder pain and to assess the satisfaction of respondents with various interventions.

The study demonstrates an association between volume of computing equipment use and neck/shoulder pain as well as female gender and neck/shoulder pain experienced at work. It also highlights the role of predisposing factors such as prior neck/shoulder injury in the occurrence of neck/shoulder pain at work. Manual therapy and exercise interventions are rated as effective.