Burden of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Banking Sector: A Cross-Sectional Study in Western Vidarbha Region, India.

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a leading cause of occupational morbidity, particularly among desk-based professionals. Banking employees face increased risk due to prolonged screen time and poor ergonomics. Limited regional data exists on WMSDs in emerging cities like Akola, Maharashtra.

Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among banking employees in Akola, Western Vidarbha, and identify the key demographic, occupational, ergonomic, and lifestyle factors contributing to it.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 390 banking employees in Akola. Data were collected using a validated semistructured proforma, incorporating the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ).

Results: The prevalence of WMSDs was found to be 37%. Female employees reported significantly higher WMSD prevalence compared with men (49.2% vs. 29.1%). Prolonged sitting (>8 h/day) increased the odds of WMSDs (OR: 2.82; 95% CI: 1.36-5.86), repetitive motion tasks (OR: 19.5; 95% CI: 4.67-81.38), and extended computer usage (>8 h/day) (OR: 3.65; 95% CI: 1.37-9.73). Higher body mass index (BMI) and abnormal waist-to-hip ratios were also associated with increased odds of WMSDs.

Conclusions: The high prevalence of WMSDs among banking employees highlights the urgent need for ergonomic interventions, lifestyle modifications, and organizational support systems. Addressing these factors through targeted workplace modifications and health promotion strategies can reduce the burden of WMSDs, enhance employee well-being, and improve workplace productivity. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term impact of these interventions.