Abstract

Work-Related Musculo-Skeletal Disorder (WRMSD) is a common complaint among the working population. In spite of the keen interest of Nigerian researchers in this subject, there is a dearth of information concerning university academic staff. Yet, this group of workers are critical to high-level manpower development. The aim of this study is to assess the risk factors and determine the point prevalence of WRMSD among academic staff of Nigeria premier University Ibadan.  Two hundred and two (202) academic staff from all faculties in the university participated in this cross-sectional study. The methodology involved a two-part process namely: An observational assessment of each academic staff by one of the researchers; and completion of a self-administered questionnaire. The Standard Nordic Questionnaire and the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) were used to assess musculoskeletal disorders and the ergonomic environment, respectively. Descriptive statistics of frequency percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to summarise the data.  Inferential statistics of chi-square was also used at p<0.05. Participants were aged 49.3± 11.21 years. Results showed a WRMSDs prevalence of 86.6 and 64% reported that the musculoskeletal disorders or pain interfered with their work. The risk factors identified were inappropriate chairs and desk height; reaching for items in the workplace; prolonged sitting time and poor ergonomic awareness. The most common reported WRMSDs were those of upper back (78.7%); hip/buttocks (78.2%); knees (70.3%); and low back (41.6%). Based on the assessment of academic staff’s office work environment, 66.3% of them were adjudged to be at a high risk of developing WRMSDs. The importance of appropriate office furniture and an improved work environment for academic staff were highlighted. 

Key words: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, university academic staff, University of Ibadan, prevalence.