Ergonomics in work situations of Ayurvedic therapists working in Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Trissur

Abstract

Introduction: Ergonomics is defined as the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. Physical, organizational and cognitive are the three types of ergonomics. Aims and Objectives: To assess the prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) in Ayurvedic therapists working in, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Trissur. Materials and Methods: A Descriptive cross sectional study was done. 17 therapists in VACH Ollur were surveyed consecutively regarding symptoms of Musculoskeletal disorders mainly LBA, neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain and heel pain. Data were collected by using questionnaires and were analysed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Out of 17 therapists, 52.9 % were females. Highest frequency of MSD was seen in the age group of 46-55 years. 80 % of the therapists were working more than 20 years. 64.5 % were suffering from LBA, 29.4% were suffering from neck pain, 23.8% were suffering from shoulder pain, 41.2% were suffering from knee pain and 17.6 % were suffering from heel pain. Discussion: Present study shows that MSD are common among therapists.  Improper posture for different procedure can be the reason. Adhering to the principles of physical and cognitive ergonomics can prevent risk factors of developing MSD.