Prevalence of cumulative trauma disorders of the upper extremity and identification of risk factors among non-medical personnel in the University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) of the upper extremity among non-medical personnel of the University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) and to identify risk factors that may have contributed to their development. METHODS: A total of 87 participants from five different administrative divisions of the UP-PGH were included in this study. Three assessment tools were administered, namely: 1) symptom survey form, 2) Rapid Upper Limb Assesment, and 3) ergonomic workstation evaluation checklist. RESULTS: The study showed that the prevalence of CTDs of the upper extremity was 47.1%. The highest prevalence of CTDs was noted in the Budget division (75%), which was composed mainly of budget officers and clerks. The most common CTD indentified was myofascial pain syndrome. Among the socio-demographic factors, only handedness was significantly related to the development of CTDs (p=0.022).CONCLUSION: This study did not show a significant relationship between the identified risk factors and the development of CTDs. Awareness of the existence of CTD cases as documented in this study, however should raise concern from the authorities to implement corrective measures to reduce or prevent CTDs and to improve the general health and thus, productivity of the non-medical personnel at the UP-PGH.