Study of Level of Understanding about the Ergonomics to be Followed in the Rural and Urban Population on Prevention of Various Musculoskeletal Problems

Abstract

Background: Ergonomics is a vague concept to learn and applying it to day-to-day life will make the work easier with less effort. Urban and rural populations both have different types of work strategies. By understanding ergonomics, modifications will be made, preventing musculoskeletal problems. This research aims to study the level of understanding of the ergonomics to be followed in rural and urban populations for the prevention of various musculoskeletal problems. Objectives: The objectives are to check the awareness level related to ergonomics among rural and urban populations using a self-made questionnaire and find out the common musculoskeletal problems prevailing and possible risk factors related to them. Methods: This was a convenience sampling method that consisted of 91 participants included in this study. 45 from rural and 46 from urban populations were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The questionnaire was made on the basis of different aspects, which will determine the level of understanding overall. The questionnaire was provided online and in offline mode too. The level of understanding was checked for each population based on responses. Results: Based on the statistical analysis, it was found that the urban population has a higher level of understanding and prevention strategies as compared to the rural population. Conclusion: Findings showed that ergonomics was a new term for the participants, but knowledge and understanding were seen more in urban participants than rural participants.