Effects of occupational therapy-based ergonomics intervention on occupational balance, musculoskeletal health, and kinesiophobia in professional divers: A single-group pretest–posttest study

Introduction: Professional diving is a demanding occupation that may disrupt occupational balance and increase the risk of musculoskeletal problems and kinesiophobia. This study examined the effects of an occupational therapy (OT) ergonomics intervention on musculoskeletal health, occupational balance, and kinesiophobia in professional divers. Methods: A single-group pretest–posttest design was used. Twenty-one professional divers aged 26–47 years (mean age: 37.43 ± 7.03 years) participated in the study. Participants received an 8-week OT-based ergonomics intervention consisting of 8 weekly sessions, each lasting approximately 50–60 minutes. Outcomes were assessed using the Occupational Balance Questionnaire, Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (DMQ), and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia. Results: After the intervention, improvements were observed in musculoskeletal health, kinesiophobia, and occupational balance. Reductions were found in the Health and Ergonomics subscales and total DMQ score ( p = 0.032, p = 0.037, and p = 0.032), whereas perceived workload did not change ( p = 0.204). Kinesiophobia decreased ( p = 0.004), and occupational balance improved ( p = 0.013). Conclusion: OT-based ergonomic interventions may improve occupational balance and support participation in physically demanding occupations such as professional diving, highlighting the preventive and occupation-focused contribution of OT to work-related health.