Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among flower growers in Machachi, Ecuador
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders are conditions that affect nerves, tendons, muscles, and supporting structures, associated with physical overexertion and repetitive movements. In the flower industry, cultivation workers are frequently exposed to ergonomic risks, although this issue has been little researched. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in cultivation workers at a flower company located in Machachi, Ecuador. The Kuorinca Nordic questionnaire and direct observation were used as data collection techniques. The results showed a predominance of young female workers with less than five years of service. The prevalence was high, with disorders identified in 93.8% of the population, with the back and wrist or hand being the most affected areas. Forty-one point eight percent of workers reported severe pain during the last year, attributed in all cases to work activity. This highlights the need for preventive interventions.
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