Relationship between the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Occupational Stress among Carpet Weavers in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Iran, in 2017

Introduction and purpose: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most important causes of disinclination to work and reduced work incentives and can lead to occupational stress over time. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the prevalence of MSDs and occupational stress among rural carpet weavers in Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. This descriptive analytical study was conducted on 100 female carpet weavers living in four villages of Sistan province. The study population was selected through convenience sampling technique. The estimation of the prevalence of MSDs and job stress was accomplished using the Nodric questionnaire for Psychological and Social Factors at Work. Data analysis was performed in SPSS software (version 16) using t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient. According to the results, the female carpet weavers had a high level of occupational stress. The most frequent MSD was observed in the upper back (98%), while the least frequent one was related to the knee disorders (45%). Occupational stress showed a positive relationship with MSDs and their components (except for the three components of the hip, knee, and leg) (P=0.001). Based on the findings of the research, it is essential to take effective measures to reduce occupational stress among rural female carpet weavers. Furthermore, considering the effect of six out of nine components of MSDs on occupational stress, the consideration of the improvement and proper design of the workplace, mental and emotional needs of carpet weavers, proper way of siting and mobility, and exercise at certain times can effectively reduce occupational stress and skeletal disorders.