An observational study of hetus of musculoskeletal pain in IT (Information Technology) professionals

Background & Objective: The IT-BPO industry employees often suffer the musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Hence the objective of this entitled study was to observe the Ayurvedic hetus (causes) for these MSDs. Methods : A cross sectional survey study was conducted on IT employees using a questionnaire on 223 subjects along with pilot study on 23 subjects. On the basis of the pilot study, validity and reliability of questionnaire was checked. Result : High incidence of low back trouble was observed (75.33%) as compared to shoulder and neck troubles. The presence of causes – Vishamasana (wrong posture), lack of exercise and Atishrama (physical and mental exertion) were very high. Higher observations were also found for the – ratri jagarana (night vigil) and kshudha vegadharana (postponing the meals). A comparative study of lifestyle factors among males & females showed that, more haphazard and faulty lifestyle was present in males. Conclusion : Vishamasana and Atishrama are major causes of these MSDs while high AC exposure, lack of exercise, ratri jagarana and kshudha vegadharana acts as Viprakrishta hetus (long term causes) for MSDs.