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Assessment of Forward Head Posture and Ergonomics in Young IT Professionals – Reasons to Worry?

Authors

  • Miss Oana-Ruxandra Stincel West University of Timisoara
  • Mrs. Mihaela Oravitan West University Of Timisoara
  • Mrs. Corina Pantea West University of Timisoara
  • Mr. Bogdan Almajan-Guta West University of Timisoara
  • Mrs. Nicoleta Mirica West University of Timisoara
  • Mr. Alexandru Boncu West University of Timisoara
  • Mr. Claudiu Avram West University of Timisoara

Keywords:

Neck disability, Craniovertebral angle, Musculoskeletal disorders, Workspace ergonomics, Software engineers, COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Prolonged computer use and poor ergonomics among IT professionals are considered risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders. This research aims to analyze the degree of forward head posture and workplace ergonomics in young IT professionals to assess the risk for a neck disability. Methods: A prospective study was carried out by assessing the sitting posture at work, neck disability in the cervical region, quality of life, physical activity, and ergonomics of the workspace in 73 young IT professionals (32.56±5.46 years). Results: The score for the cervical functional disability index (NDI) showed a mild neck disability (8.19±7.51). The craniovertebral angle has an average value of 32.01±11.46, corresponding to a light forward head posture, and it positively correlated with age and work experience and negatively correlated with ROSA (r=0.24, p<0.05). The NDI positively correlated with physical activity (r =00.32 p<0.05) and with ROSA (r= 0.24, p<0.05). Conclusions: In IT professionals, neck disability is associated with the lack of workspace ergonomics and the amount of physical activity. Forward head posture correlated with age, work experience, and poor workspace ergonomics. According to our findings, there are real concerns about the influence of head posture and workplace ergonomics on health among IT professionals. We consider that it is necessary to adopt preventive measures to address neck disability and improve workspace ergonomics.

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Author Biographies

Miss Oana-Ruxandra Stincel , West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Research Assistant, PT, PhD student

Mrs. Mihaela Oravitan, West University Of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Professor PhD, MD

Mrs. Corina Pantea, West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Associate Professor PhD, MD

Mr. Bogdan Almajan-Guta, West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Associate Professor PhD, PT

Mrs. Nicoleta Mirica, West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Lecturer PhD, MD, Vicedean - responsible for scientific research

Mr. Alexandru Boncu, West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Education and Sports, Lecturer PhD

Mr. Claudiu Avram, West University of Timisoara

Department of Physical Therapy and Special Motricity, Professor PhD, MD

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Issue

Vol. 114 No. 1 (2023)

Section

Original articles

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