Effectiveness of ergonomics training and exercise in tea workers: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of a 12-week ergonomic training and exercise program on musculoskeletal pain and ergonomic risks in tea workers.

METHODS

The study included 60 tea workers (aged 25-70) with musculoskeletal pain, randomly assigned to an intervention group (ergonomic training and exercise) or a control group (only ergonomic training). The assessments were done at baseline and 12 weeks after the intervention. Outcomes included the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand QuestionnairIndex, kg: kilogram, m: metere (DASH), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) assessment.

RESULTS

In the intervention group, a significant difference was observed in the NMQ, DASH 1 and 2, PSQI, and VAS scores for all regions in the intra-group (pre-post intervention) comparison (p < 0.05). In the control group, a significant difference was observed in the NMQ (shoulder and waist only), DASH 1, and PSQI scores (p < 0.05). When comparing the post-treatment values of the two groups, significant differences in favor of the intervention group were found in all outcome measures (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

An integrated approach of ergonomic training and exercise programs has the potential to alleviate musculoskeletal discomfort among tea workers. These interventions may be an effective strategy to improve the well-being of physically demanding tea workers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06407453.