Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common in agriculture and rural workers. In Saskatchewan, specifically, 85% of farmers and farm workers report pain in at least one body part. Typical risk factors, such as repetitive motions, awkward postures, and heavy loads, are often cited as the reason for the high prevalence of MSDs in this population, but many agricultural tasks and other rural occupations lack high quality measurements needed to understand the specific biomechanical mechanisms for disorders.

Identification of the aspects of farm work that are the most challenging and most affected by MSDs is the first step to in-depth ergonomic analyses and interventions.

The purpose of this mixed-methods survey was to explore the self-reported work-related functional demands and limitations of individuals with MSDs in rural Saskatchewan.

Results

Results

Findings from this survey reinforce the need to pursue research into the connection between farm work and musculoskeletal disorders. The presence of pain or disorder influenced the ability to complete required work tasks, specifically if the shoulder, knee, or lower back were injured. Future research in the Musculoskeletal Health and Ergonomics lab will use these findings to inform the development of externally valid testing protocols to better understand how biomechanics during farm work tasks influence MSK disorders, both in-lab and in-field.

For more information, see our publication in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (https://journals.lww.com/joem/Fulltext/2022/09000/Do_Musculoskeletal_Disorders_Affect_Work_Tasks_in.24.aspx) or message for the PDF article!