Optimal correction in spectacles: Intervention effects on eyestrain and musculoskeletal discomfort among postal workers

作者：Hillevi Hemphälä, P. Nylén, Jörgen Eklund · 发表于：Work · 年份：2014 · DOI：10.3233/wor-131773 · 被引用次数：5 · 研究领域：Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders、Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation、Occupational health in dentistry

BACKGROUND: The static posture of postal workers when sorting mail can lead to musculoskeletal discomfort. Research has shown a connection between eyestrain and upper-body musculoskeletal discomfort in general, including postal workers. A previous study of postal workers found that most of those with eye strain were in need of a new correction in their existing spectacles. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate intervention effects on eyestrain and musculoskeletal discomfort with new spectacles for postal workers. METHODS: Postal workers subjectively reported eyestrain, musculoskeletal discomfort and their opinions of the visual environment via questionnaires pre- and post-intervention. After an eye examination the postal workers were divided into two groups: those who needed new spectacles and those who did not. RESULTS: Those who needed new spectacles showed a higher prevalence of eyestrain and musculoskeletal discomfort pre-intervention. Post-intervention, the postal workers rated their vision better and the average eyestrain and musculoskeletal discomfort decreased for both groups. These workers also experienced a decrease in discomfort on the left (static) side of the neck while sorting mail. CONCLUSION: An intervention providing the optimal correction reduces eyestrain and decreases musculoskeletal discomfort, especially from the neck.