بررسی میزان شیوع درد‌های اسکلتی-عضلانی در رانندگان اتوبوس‌های بین شهری

Background & objective: In developing countries, a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders has been reported among drivers. However, there are a few researches in this area among suburban bus drivers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal pains in suburban bus drivers in Zanjan. Methods: : This cross-sectional study has been verified by Ethics Committee of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. Nordic questionnaire of musculoskeletal disorders and demographic questionnaire in relation to the the individual characteristics were filled for all of suburban bus drivers in Zanjan (89 individuals) in the spassenger terminals of this city. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 11.. Results: The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the participants for the last 12 months was observed in the low back (47.2%), neck&nbsp; (38.2%) , shoulders and knees (27%) hip and thigh(16.9%), upper back (15.7%),&nbsp; foot and ankle (12.4%), wrist and hand (9.1%) and elbow (7.9%), respectively. Variables such as daily exercise, smoking, age and work experience showed a significant relationship with pain in various parts of the body within the last 12 months and 7 days (pvalue<0.05). However, the variables have no significant relationship between the variables and preventing&nbsp; normal work during the last 12 months. Conclusion: The results of this study showed a considerable prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the suburban bus drivers. Despite of the efforts undertaken to control the vibration of&nbsp; driver's seat vibration and&nbsp; provide an ergonomic work station for drivers, the lumbar and cervical pains are still common among them.