Study On Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) In Relation to Physical Factors Among Office Workers of University in Malaysia

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a major occupational health concern, affecting workers' well-being and productivity. They also burden organizations with higher healthcare costs, absenteeism, and reduced productivity. Key physical factors contributing to WRMSDs include poor ergonomics, incorrect workstation setups, and repetitive movements. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 49 office workers from various Malaysian universities used a questionnaire with sections on socio-demographics, physical factors, general ques tions, and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) to identify WRMSD causes. Results: Most respondents reported WRMSD issues in the office, with a 12 month prevalence showing knees most affected (63.3%), followed by the upper back (30.6%) and lower back (22.4%). Significant associations were found between insufficient breaks and WRMSDs in the last seven days (p-value < 0.001) and working near physical limits and WRMSDs in the past 12 months (p-value = 0.004). Conclusion: The study concluded that physical factors significantly influence WRMSD development among university office workers in Malaysia. Implementing specific preventive measures can reduce WRMSD risks, promoting a healthier and more positive work environment for university office staff.