BACKGROUND:
The interest in school ergonomic intervention programs and their effects on
musculoskeletal pain is increasing around the world.
OBJECTIVE:
The objective of this longitudinal randomized control trial was to implement
and measure the effects of a computer-related ergonomics intervention on
grade eight learners in a school environment in Johannesburg South Africa (a
developing country).
METHODS:
The sample comprised of a control group (n= 66) and an intervention group
(n= 61). The outcome measures used were posture assessment using the Rapid
Upper Limb Assessment tool (RULA) and the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain
using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Measurements were done at baseline,
three months and six months post intervention.
RESULTS:
The results showed that the posture of the intervention group changed
significantly from an Action Level 4 to an Action level 2 and Action level 3,
indicating a sustained improvement of learners' postural positions whilst
using computers. The intervention group showed a significant reduction in
the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain from 42.6% at baseline to 18%
six months post intervention (p< 0.003).
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, the results indicated that a computer-related intervention
program for grade eight learners in a school environment is effective and
that behavioural changes can be made that are sustainable over a period of
six months.
