Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among University Faculty in Kolkata: An Institutional-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major occupational health issue among university
faculty due to prolonged sitting, repetitive tasks, and poor ergonomics. Understanding their prevalence
and associated factors is essential for targeted intervention.
Objective: To assess the prevalence, anatomical distribution, and gender-based associations of MSDs among
university faculty members in Kolkata.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 300
university faculty members, of whom 240 responded (response rate: 80%). The questionnaire collected data
on demographic variables, MSD symptoms over the past 12 months and 4 weeks, and work-related factors
such as sitting and computer use. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze prevalence, and Pearson’s chi-
square test assessed gender-based associations.
Results: A total of 75.8% of respondents experienced MSD symptoms over the previous year, with 53.3%
reporting symptoms in the past month. The most affected regions were the neck (28.8%), lower back
(24.2%), shoulders (13.8%), and upper back (12.5%). Average daily sitting and computer use times were 4.8
and 3.5 hours, respectively. Chi-square analysis revealed no significant gender association for most
anatomical regions, except for hip/thigh pain (p = 0.015). Upper back (p = 0.076) and wrist/hand pain (p =
0.071) showed borderline statistical associations.
Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of MSDs among university faculty in Kolkata, especially in the neck
and lower back regions. Although most gender differences were not statistically significant, the findings
highlight the need for ergonomic education and preventive measures within academic institutions.