The main aim of this Master thesis was to determine the lifestyle of office workers and to evaluate their movement efficiency of cervical and thoracic spine. We were also interested whether there are any asymmetries between the left and right side of the torsoas a consequence of sedentary work behind the computer. According to the given results, we suggested some adjustments to the workplace and a set of exercises for cervical and thoracic spine that employees can perform during their work hours.
Two samples were included in the experiment. The first sample represented 97 survey respondents, while the second sample included 19 respondents taken from the first sample. We performed upper body movement efficiency measurements on the second sample. All participants fulfilled questionnaires about the occurrence of musculoskeletal problems (Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, 2014) and adapted questionnaires about the neck pain in everyday life (Neck disability index). To determine movement efficiency for the second sample, we applied a deep squat test, shoulder mobility test (testing battery FMS) and raised arms straight up (testing battery UKK). Furthermore, we applied torso side lean (testing battery UKK), torso deviation, and rotation and deviation of the head (with mobile app goniometry) to determine whether there are any asymmetries between left and right side of the trunk.
Data analysis was performed using software IBM SPSS 20. Frequencies and frequency distributions were calculated for the descriptive variables while average, standard deviation, and standard error were calculated for the numerical variables. We tested data normativity distribution for numerical variables (Shapiro-Wilks test). Afterwards, 1-sample T-test was used to test comparison between measured and optimal movement efficiency score and Paired Sample T-test to compare the difference in mobility of the head and left and right side of the trunk. The level of significance was set at a 5% risk level during the treatments.
Based on our results, predominantly sedentary workplace causes musculoskeletal problems for office workers. The pain most frequently occurs in the lumbar region of the spine, in the neck, and shoulders. The results also showed reduced movement efficiency in the upper part of the spine and reduced active mobility in the neck. In addition, smaller deviations between left and right side of thoracic and lumbar part of the spine were observed, while no statistically significant differences were found in neck rotations and deviations.
Results of the research could be used as a helpful tool for professionals that provide programs for sedentary workplace employees, as well as for company executives and for any employees who sit for long periods of time and would like to improve their health.
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