Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders associated with awkward postures among university faculty members teaching online

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) constitute one of the main occupational conditions associated with awkward postures and prolonged sitting, risks that online teaching significantly increases among university faculty. In order to establish preventive programs aimed at improving the health and well-being of this group, this observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study determined the prevalence of MSDs and the level of ergonomic risk in 12 university professors from the Social Work program, selected through non-probability sampling. Data collection and analysis were conducted using the Kuorinka Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the REBA ergonomic assessment method, calculating corresponding frequencies and prevalence ratios. Results revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort, primarily located in the lower back (75% to 83% both in the last 7 days and the last 12 months), associated with a medium level of ergonomic risk due to inadequate working conditions. Although no significant differences in general symptoms were identified based on the equipment or furniture used, in the neck region, professors using fixed furniture and laptops were 1.5 times more likely to suffer discomfort compared to those using adjustable furniture. In conclusion, there is a high presence of MSDs among online teaching faculty, concentrated mainly in the lumbar and cervical regions. Therefore, implementing priority preventive measures focused on the ergonomic adaptation of workstations is recommended, emphasizing the use of adjustable furniture.