P-615 Exploring Workload and Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy in Electricians: A Cross-Sectional Study Utilizing Questionnaires and Radiological Examinations

Introduction Exploring workload and shoulder pain in electricians is crucial due to occupational hazards. Electricians often experience excessive strain on their shoulders, which can result in conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT). Our aim was to use imaging to screen for RCT among electricians. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among electricians using a questionnaire. Socio-professional data and results from radiological examinations of painful shoulders were collected. The raw National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (raw NASA-TLX) was employed to assess perceived workload. Results We enrolled 70 male electricians with a mean age of 38.1±10.2 years and an average job tenure of 14.5±11.1 years. Among them, 18.6% experienced right shoulder pain and 14.3% had pain in the left shoulder. Shoulder radiography and ultrasound revealed abnormalities in 48.6% and 67.1% of cases, respectively. Notably, 22.9% and 8.6% of electricians exhibited supraspinatus and subscapular tendinopathies. Electricians with shoulder radiography and ultrasound abnormalities were older and had longer job tenures (p<0.05). Mental and physical demands, performance, effort, frustration, and temporal demand scores were 88.7±14.4, 62.4±22.7, 85.1±13.8, 82.7±14.3, 35.9±28.7, and 59.8±28.9, respectively. Electricians with shoulder radiography abnormalities experienced higher time pressure (p=0.02). Discussion This study emphasizes the significance of investigating workload and shoulder pain among electricians due to occupational hazards. Shoulder strain, potentially causing RCT, necessitates screening through imaging. Conclusion Electricians are at risk of shoulder issues, notably tendinopathies. Radiological findings and workload indicators highlight the need for ergonomic interventions and preventive measures to ensure their long-term musculoskeletal health.