Ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, treatment and return to work: a conceptual framework for intervention programs.

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most recurrent diseases among manual workers worldwide. The objective of this study was to analyze primary results of a systematic review on ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, treatment, and return to work in blue-collar workers to form a new conceptual framework applicable to intervention programs in this area. This study was based on the available scientific evidence we identified. Descriptive data and their trending topics areas were used to form the conceptual framework. The trend shows that working conditions can be represented as a three-axis scheme with a multidimensional conceptual framework considering ergonomic risks, the treatment of affected workers and the determinants related to working conditions. These results may help future research in the field of ergonomics as well as emerging topics focused on intervention programs.