The Effect of Musculoskeletal Problems on Fatigue and Productivity of Office Personnel

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) can be affective on the fatigue and productivity of office workers. This study aimed to survey of the effect of musculoskeletal problems on fatigue and productivity in office personnel. Methods: In this study, 101 Iranian office workers participated. Data was gathered through demographic questionnaire, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Numeric Rating Scale, Persian version of Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue Scale, and Persian version of Health and Work Questionnaire. Results: The results revealed that the highest prevalence rates of musculoskeletal symptoms in the past week were related to the neck (41.6%), lower back (41.6%), and shoulders (40.6%). The mean score of discomfort/pain in the neck, lower back, and shoulders were 1.67, 1.55, and 1.31, respectively. The severity of discomfort/pain in neck, shoulders, lower back, and thighs were correlated with total fatigue. The severity of discomfort/pain in the neck, lower back, buttock, and thighs were correlated with concentration/focus sub-scale of productivity. Conclusions: Improvement of working conditions is suggested for reducing musculoskeletal problems, fatigue decrement, and productivity increment.