Prevalence and Ergonomic Risk Factors of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Health Sciences Students in Puncak Alam, Selangor

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a leading occupational health concern, increasingly affecting student populations engaged in prolonged sedentary and study-related activities. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among undergraduate students at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Puncak Alam, Selangor, and to evaluate ergonomic risks associated with study postures. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 116 students from eight health science programmes, selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire incorporating sociodemographic variables and the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (SNQ), while ergonomic risks were assessed via direct observation with the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, with significance set at p≤0.05. Results indicated that the most common musculoskeletal complaints within the past 12 months were neck (62.1%), upper back (60.3%), lower back (59.5%), and shoulder pain (58.6%). Wrist/hand discomfort was reported by 49.1% of participants. RULA assessment showed that 85.3% of students scored 3–4, indicating medium ergonomic risk requiring further investigation, while 14.7% scored 5–6, suggesting corrective measures are needed. No significant association was found between MSD symptoms and RULA scores. The findings highlight the considerable burden of WMSDs among health sciences students and underscore the importance of ergonomic awareness, improved study environments, and preventive strategies. Future longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causal relationships.