Affiliations: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,
University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers, 325 E. Eisenhower, Suite
100, Ann Arbor, MI 48108-0718, USA. Tel.: +1 734 936 4031; Fax: +1 734 936
7048; E-mail: elsrn@umich.edu
Note: [] Postdoctoral Fellow, Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training
Center, National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation and Research (NIDRR),
Grant H133P990014
Abstract: The purpose of this evidence-based study is to investigate the
impact of a multi-component intervention on health behavior change among
office/computer workers in preventing repetitive strain injuries. Forty office
workers employed in an administrative office in Michigan participated in this
project. The subjects completed a comprehensive questionnaire at three
different times in 1994 and 1995. The intervention took place between time 2
and time 3 and included posters, e-mail tips, mini-workshops, and activities of
a Wellness Ergonomic Team. A theoretical model was tested to identify factors
influencing healthy behaviors. Study findings revealed positive behavior change
for 62% of the participants. The factors most strongly related to health
behavior change appear to be self-efficacy, the intention to change one's
behavior, and perceived health status. Better understanding of health behavior
change coupled with ergonomic modifications is a significant step toward the
prevention of repetitive strain injuries resulting from computer use.
