WORK ENVIRONMENT AND MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS OF BLACKSMITHS (PANDAY) IN ILOCOS NORTE

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between work environment and musculoskeletal conditions of blacksmiths in Ilocos Norte. Methods: This correlational research design study determined the socio-demographic profile, lifestyle, work environment, and musculoskeletal conditions of blacksmiths from Ilocos Norte using the researcher-assisted Ilokano-translated Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (DMQ). Data analyses were done using descriptive statistics and Fisher’s Exact test of independence. Alpha was set at 0.05. Results: A total of 30 blacksmiths participated in the study with mean age of 61-75 years old, male dominated (86.67%). Complaints of wrist pain were highly significant in point prevalence while low back pain in period prevalence. Further analyses revealed that sex showed high significant relationship to prevalence of upper and lower back pain. BMI also showed significant relationship to the prevalence of lower extremity pain among blacksmiths in Ilocos Norte. Discussion: The study revealed that work environment does not appear to be associated with musculoskeletal conditions of blacksmiths in Ilocos Norte. Findings of the study suggest that male blacksmiths are at a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal conditions. With this, such conditions are highly obvious in blacksmiths because of their job’s physical demands, such as heavy lifting and prolonged standing or bending. However, it is important to note that females or anyone who performs repetitive or physically demanding tasks for extended periods of time can also be at risk for these types of conditions.