Incidence and Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Their Risk Factors among Hairdressers and Beauticians: A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Hairdressers in India experience occupational illness as well as stressful working conditions which can result in permanent incapacity mainly due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), yet WRMSDs in this workforce remain largely unstudied. The aim of the present study was to assess the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSDs) and evaluate the prevalence of WRMSDs among hairdressers and beauticians.

Method: A cross-sectional survey was carried out between May and June 2021. This study investigates the prevalence of WRMSDs among 150 study subjects largely from Mumbai and Gujarat metropolis in India. WRMSDs was evaluated with, The Modified Nordic Questionnaire for Musculoskeletal Symptoms. Each hairdresser completed a self-administered Questionnaire which included information on socio-demographic characteristics, working conditions and health-related musculoskeletal system complaints.

Results: The study of 150 hairdressers and beauticians revealed a high WRMSD prevalence (88.7%). Significant associations were found between WRMSDs and factors including age, work experience, customer count, rest time, and hours spent standing.

Conclusions: The prevalence of the WMSDs among participants was 88.7%. The most commonly affected body region included the Neck (46%), Lumbo-pelvic region (44.7%), Shoulder (40.7%). Taking sufficient rest breaks was one of the major coping strategies they adopted.