Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are major causes of absenteeism, increased costs, and human injuries among computer users. This study aimed to examine the effects of ergonomics training and corrective exercises on musculoskeletal disorders among a gas company computer users. Material and Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 19 office computer users who participated in training programs, including correct sitting postures, workplace layouts, and corrective exercises. For this purpose, training programs and corrective exercises were employed in four one-hour sessions in one week and 16 one-hour sessions in eight weeks. Results: Musculoskeletal disorder prevalence, postures, and workplace layouts were assessed using the Nordic Questionnaire and a researcher-made checklist. Accordingly, the highest prevalence was observed in the lower back (63.2), neck (52.6), and knees (42.1). Differences in the rates of proper postures and workplace layouts were statistically significant before and after the ergonomic training so that 81.25 of postures and 47.8 of workplace layouts were improved. The results showed that training programs on ergonomics principles and corrective movements reduced musculoskeletal disorders among office computer users within the range of 10.5 to 52.6. Conclusions: Increasing employee awareness of appropriate postures, workplace layouts, and corrective movements effectively reduced musculoskeletal disorders in computer users.