VDT-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS - INTERACTIONS BETWEEN WORK POSTURE AND PSYCHOSOCIAL WORK FACTORS

Video display terminal (VDT) operators (n = 150) in the editorial depa rtment of a large metropolitan newspaper participated in a study of da y-to-day musculoskeletal symptoms. Work posture related to the VDT wor kstation and psychosocial work factors were also investigated for thei r contributions to the severity of upper body pain, numbness, and stif fness using a representative subsample (n = 70). Self-report measures included Karasek's Job Content Instrument and the author-designed Work Interpersonal Relationships Inventory. Independent observations of wo rk posture were performed using techniques similar to those reported b y Sauter et al. [1998]. Pain during the last week was reported by 59% (n = 88) of the respondents, and 28% (n = 42) were categorized by symp tom criteria potentially to have musculoskeletal disorders. More hours per day of VDT use and less decision latitude on the job were signifi cant risk factors for potential musculoskeletal CTDs. Head rotation an d relative keyboard height were significantly related to more severe p ain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and upper back. Lower levels of co-worker support were associated with more severe hand and arm nu mbness. For both the region of the shoulders, neck, and upper back and the hand and arm region, however, the contributions of relative keybo ard and seat back heights to symptom severity were modified by psychol ogical workload, decision latitude, and employee relationship with the supervisor. Alternative explanations for these findings are discussed . (C) 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.