Frequency of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Tailors of Lahore, Pakistan

Dr Anam Shahzadi; Dr Rabia Rahat; Dr Hajra Rahat

doi:10.61919/k75a9a73

Authors

Dr Anam Shahzadi Physiotherapist (DPT), MRes Public Health, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom Author
Dr Rabia Rahat MBBS, MRes Public Health, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom Author
Dr Hajra Rahat Physiotherapist, CMH Quetta Cantt, Quetta, Pakistan Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61919/k75a9a73

Keywords:

Musculoskeletal disorders; Tailors; Occupational health; Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire; Ergonomics; Lower back pain; Lahore

Abstract

Background: Tailoring is a posture-dependent occupation involving prolonged sitting, repetitive upper-limb activity, sustained visual attention, and limited postural variation. These ergonomic exposures may contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the spine, shoulder girdle, upper limbs, and lower limbs. Objective: To determine the frequency and anatomical distribution of musculoskeletal disorders among tailors working in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 244 tailors selected through convenience sampling from different stitching and tailoring units in Lahore. Data were collected using a structured demographic and work-related questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale, and Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Demographic variables, working posture, break period, working hours, work experience, and regional musculoskeletal symptoms were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, and categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages. Results: The mean age of participants was 32.65 ± 9.66 years. Of 244 participants, 154 (63.1%) were male and 90 (36.9%) were female. Most participants worked in sitting posture (240, 98.4%), and 187 (76.6%) worked 6 or more hours per day. The most frequently reported 12-month musculoskeletal trouble involved the lower back (42, 17.2%), shoulders (35, 14.3%), and knees (34, 13.9%). Similar patterns were observed for activity limitation, physician consultation, and 7-day trouble. Conclusion: Lower back, shoulder, and knee symptoms were the most frequently reported musculoskeletal disorders among tailors in Lahore. Ergonomic education, workstation modification, and preventive movement strategies are recommended for this occupational group

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