Healthy workplace with ergonomics among software engineers: a review

Estimate on the prevalence of musculoskeletal problems among the software engineers vary widely across globe. The main cause of this work-related musculoskeletal problem is due to improper usage of ergonomics. The objective of this review is to discuss the role or principles of ergonomics on preventing musculoskeletal problem among software engineers. Multiple databases (PubMed, Medline, Embase and Google Scholar) were searched for studies on the prevalence of musculoskeletal problem among software engineers and the implications of ergonomic interventions on these problems. The studies were prioritized according to validity and quality. Only a few studies were done to identify the knowledge or awareness about the ergonomic positions, practise of the ergonomic principles, its association with the prevalence of musculoskeletal problems, do the organisation provides regular ergonomic check of the workstation, do the software professionals have a regular health check-up.

Musculoskeletal Problems in Lower Extremity after Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of disability in the elderly. Among complications of stroke, musculoskeletal problems are common, thereby causing improper gait biomechanics, development of pain, and limitation in performing activities of daily living. Post-stroke hip fractures and greater trochanteric pain syndrome are common complication near hip joint. Knee osteoarthritis can be accelerated by altered biomechanics of post-stroke period, that is associated with ambulation levels. Stiff knee gait and genu recurvatum can be developed after stroke and usually contribute to abnormal gait patterns, due to weakness or spasticity of various muscles, and they need to control or compensate affected muscle activities. In case of ankle and foot problems, foot varus deformity is caused by imbalance between muscles that control ankle movement, while claw toes and the persistent extension of the great toe are mainly due to overactivity of muscles that moves toes, and mainstay of treatment is to control inappropriate activities of affected muscles. It is important to make the exact therapeutic decision and establish the rehabilitation plan through the early evaluation of lower extremity musculoskeletal problems that affect the mobility and ambulation.

Musculoskeletal Problems in Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the frequency, nature and risk factors of musculoskeletal problems in pregnancy. METHOD: We obtained the information through a questionnaire and physical examination of full-term (gestational age over 38 weeks) pregnant women. Prevalence, onset time, severity and risk factors of musculoskeletal problems were analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 70 pregnant women, 37 women (53%) complained of low back pain which was the most common musculoskeletal problem in pregnancy. Other problems were hand symptoms (31%), lower extremity joint pain (31%), leg cramp (29%), chest pain, shoulder pain and neck pain. Previous history of low back pain was significantly correlated with the occurrence of low back pain in pregnancy. Weight gain during pregnancy and amount of time of housework during pregnancy were significantly correlated with carpal tunnel syndrome. Pregnant women suffering from leg cramp were significantly old in age. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of musculoskeletal problems during pregnancy was relatively high and several risk factors were related with occurrence of those problems. So, prophylactic risk factor control would be necessary to reduce musculoskeletal problems during pregnancy.