Affiliations: American Senior Communities-Rosewalk Village,
Lafayette, IN, USA | Department of Occupational Therapy, Indiana University
School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Thomas Fisher, Department of
Occupational Therapy, Indiana University School of Health &
Rehabilitation Sciences, 1140 W. Michigan St., CF 311, Indianapolis, IN, 46202,
USA. Tel.: +1 317 274 8006; E-mail: fishert@iupui.edu
Abstract: Objective: This study was designed to determine the efficacy of the
implementation of computer workstation recommendation by an occupational
therapist and the satisfaction of employees with these recommendations. The
original worksite analysis was performed to decrease pain symptoms and
discomfort of employees whose work is at a computer. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the participants' work
environments with a follow-up questionnaire used. All participant responses
underwent a cross-case comparison analysis to identify themes. Results: Six of the seven participants reported experiencing a reduction in their
musculoskeletal pain symptoms after implementing the ergonomic recommendations
made following the computer station worksite analysis by an occupational
therapist. The changes led to increased comfort and productivity. Conclusions: Compliance of the workers following through with the
recommendations contributed to the improvement in musculoskeletal pain and
discomfort for employees. Using a worksite analysis to provide customized
ergonomic recommendations for an individual's computer workstation resulted in
decreased upper extremity musculoskeletal pain and increased productivity for
these employees.
