Psychosocial factors in the work environment and work-related musculoskeletal disorder symptoms of the neck

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a major public health problem in terms of the considerable amount of disability, impairment, and associated economic cost. Among these disorders, the occurrence of WRMSD symptoms of the neck is prevalent and has been associated with significant disability, long periods of sick leave and loss of productivity in occupational settings. Risk factors for WRMSDs are multifactorial, and studies have typically focused on mechanical or ergonomic factors. More recently, psychosocial factors in the work environment have been considered; however, findings across these studies have not been consistent. Despite the evidence associated with mechanical factors on the occurrence of WRMSDs, widespread prevention and treatment efforts have not been successfully implemented. Psychosocial factors such as increased psychological demands, decreased control and low social support may play a role in WRMSD occurrence.;The demand-control-support model has been widely used to predict job strain. Particularly for disorders of the neck, psychosocial factors seem to play a strong role in their occurrence. The psychosocial work environment and WRMSDs are fisted as research priorities of the National Occupational Research Agenda developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.;This cross-sectional study looked at psychosocial factors in the work environment and neck symptoms, while controlling for confounders. This project was carried out on a group of garment workers.;The prevalence of neck symptoms was measured by a self-administered questionnaire. A modified version of the Job Content Questionnaire was included to assess psychosocial factors and to test the demand-control-support model. An observational checklist was developed and used to assess ergonomic exposures on individual workers' jobs.;The participation rate for the study was 85%. The final sample of garment workers consisted of 279 female participants. Their mean age was 43 years ranging from 18 to 71 years. The mean length of employment was 9.6 years. The prevalence of symptoms of neck disorders in the garment population was 21.2%.;The study findings partially supported the job strain model, revealing an increase in prevalence of neck symptoms with psychological and with physical job demands; however, associations with worker control and social support were not supported.