PURPOSE: To characterize types of body aches presented by call center operators and to verify the relationship of the selected body aches with voice use in work activities. METHODS: 235 call center operators and 235 individuals from the general population responded to a questionnaire with closed questions about body aches (classified into proximal and distal larynx aches), voice problems, professional activity and search for specialized help. It was investigated whether there was a relationship between each type of pain and the other aspects addressed by the questionnaire. RESULTS: Body aches were reported by both groups; however call center operators reported a greater number of them. Call center operators also reported having greater need of calling sick and more aches (shoulders, neck, head, back, arms, hands and ears) than the general population. There was a relationship between most of the body aches with voice problem, absenteeism from work due to voice problems and appointment with an otolaryngologist in the group of call center operators. In the general population, the workload tended to relate to chest and hand pains. There was no difference between the groups when the body aches were compared. CONCLUSION: Call center operators suffer from more body aches that are both proximal to and distal from the larynx and have greater need to call sick due to voice problems than the general population, fact that highlights the vocal and physical fatigue of these professionals.
Pain; Pain, referred; Evaluation studies; Speech, language and hearing sciences; Questionnaires; Voice
