Rotator cuff syndrome in truck assembly line workers

Abstract

Objectives

To identify biomechanical risk factors for rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) and analyze factors associated with cases found among truck assembly workers.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in an automaker of trucks in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo in 2013. Ergonomics evaluation of workstations was performed using OWAS. Among 79 workers who participated in the study, RCS cases were those who reported pain complaints in the shoulders during the past week and whose RCS´s specific physical evaluation was positive.

Results

Nine of the 12 workstations analyzed require biomechanics of the upper limbs with lifting above shoulder level. The ergonomic tool indicates the need for immediate corrective action in five workstations. The profile of the participants was as follows: male, mean age of 35 years, average working time in the company of 7.83 years. RCS was found in 17.7% of the participants. The outcome was associated with age and working time in the company.

Conclusion

Workers who perform this activity can develop RCS. Older employees and those who have worked longer in the company are the groups that should be evaluated more frequently so that early diagnosis can be achieved.

Keywords:
occupational risks; musculoskeletal diseases; human engineering; motor vehicles; occupational health