Association between working in awkward postures, in particular overhead work, and pain in the shoulder region in the context of the 2018 BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of work-related sick leave and incur substantial socioeconomic costs. With aging our society employees, problem is exacerbating, prevention becoming increasingly important. According to previous studies, exposure awkward postures, such as overhead work, associated with musculoskeletal problems. Objective This study aimed determine current prevalence employees who work in specifically overhead, stratified by age, gender occupation context 2018 BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey analyze associations between working particular pain shoulder region. Method The based on secondary data from German . We have included 14,327 20,012 aged < 67 years at least 35 h per week took part survey. classification participants occupational groups B lossfeld classification. multivariate analysis was conducted applying robust Poisson regression models adjusted block obtain relation self-reported frequency occurrence arm neck pain. Prevalence ratios (PR) reported effect estimates. Results 12.7% indicated that they often exposed postures work; 5.0% stated performed work. majority these worked agricultural, unskilled skilled manual occupations. crude 17.4% for 48.4% If subjects risk increased 18% (PR 1.18, CI 1.04–1.34, final model). Conclusion Working especially a factor upper extremity disorders. development strategies should focus workforce