Musculoskeletal disorders among bus drivers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: Bus drivers are exposed to various health, safety, and ergonomic risks, making them vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among bus drivers.

Methods: This study followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024509249). Relevant studies were identified up to February 12, 2024, through databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SID, ISC, and Google Scholar. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² index, and a random-effects model was used for meta-analysis. Data analysis was performed using STATA version 14.

Results: Out of 723 initially identified studies, 22 were included in the meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of MSDs among bus drivers was 73.87% (95% confidence interval [CI] [64.37, 83.36], I2 = 98.2%, p < 0.001). Prevalence by the body region was as follows: lower back (50.22%), neck (39.88%), shoulder (38.72%), upper back (32.42%), knee (31.74%), foot (28.29%), hip/thigh (14.86%), hand (14.74%), and elbow (9.36%).

Conclusions: MSDs are highly prevalent among bus drivers, especially in the lower back. Given the presence of various ergonomic risk factors, it is imperative to implement comprehensive strategies, including targeted training, ergonomic assessments, accessible healthcare, and effective rehabilitation programs, to manage and mitigate the progression of MSDs in this population.