Evaluation of 'I-Preventive': a digital preventive tool for musculoskeletal disorders in computer workers—a pilot cluster randomised trial. Issue 9 (22nd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lanhers, C; Pereira, B; Garde, G; Maublant, C; Dutheil, F; Coudeyre, E
• Is Part Of: BMJ open. Volume 6:Issue 9(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-09-22
• Subjects: PREVENTIVE MEDICINE -- SPORTS MEDICINE; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; 610.72
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-011304
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-6055

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: I-Preventive is a digital preventive tool for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in computer workers. We sought to determine its impact on pain in computer workers with upper limb MSDs and visual discomfort. Methods: We conducted a pilot cluster randomised trial in 2 different sites of a tyre factory in France. We randomised 200 employees to either an intervention group (I-Preventive) or control group, each comprising symptomatic and asymptomatic employees. The workers were followed up for 5 months. The main outcome was overall recovery from symptoms following 1 month's intervention based on Nordic-style and eyestrain questionnaires. Results: We included 185/200 workers: 96 in the intervention group (mean age 41.8±1.4 years; 88.5% males) and 79 in the control group (mean age 42.9±12.0 years; 94.5% males). The most painful areas (numerical scale ≥2) were the neck (40.0%), upper back (18.8%) and shoulders (15.7%). For the most painful anatomical area, the Nordic score significantly decreased after 1 month in the intervention group (p=0.038); no change was observed in the control group (p=0.59). After 1 month's use, the intervention group reported less pain in the painful area and less visual discomfort symptoms (p=0.02). Adherence to the I-Preventive program was 60%. Conclusions: I-Preventive is effective in the short term on musculoskeletal symptoms and visual discomfort by promoting active breaks and eyestrain treatment. This easy-to-use digital tool allows each worker to focus on areas of their choice via personalised, easy exercises that can be performed in the workplace. Trial registration number: NCT02350244 ; Pre-results.