Ergonomics and back pain. Study of university hospital staff
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35954/SM2026.45.1.3.e302Keywords:
Spinal diseases, ergonomics, health personnel, occupational health, job satisfactionAbstract
Introduction: Low back and neck pain is one of the main causes of disability in healthcare workers, associated with high biomechanical demands.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of an educational ergonomic intervention on reducing back pain and improving health perception and job satisfaction.
Materials and methods: Prospective study in 34 hospital workers, with the application of an educational ergonomic intervention. Descriptive and non-parametric statistical analysis was performed.
Results: A significant reduction was observed in pain intensity (VAS), functional limitations (76.5%→44.1%, p=0.001), and frequency of work interference, with improvements in health perception and job satisfaction (p<0.001).
Discussion: The high prevalence of low back and neck pain in hospital workers is confirmed, and the positive impact of an educational ergonomic intervention is demonstrated.
Conclusion: The educational ergonomic intervention was effective in reducing pain and improving work well-being in hospital workers.
NOTE: This article was approved by the Editorial Committee.
Received for review: September 2025.
Accepted for publication: December 2025.
Publication date: February 2026.
Correspondence: Dr. Manuel Quintela Clinical Hospital. Av. Italia s/n. C.P. 11600. Tel.: (+598) 1953. Montevideo, Uruguay.
Contact email: danilo.dancoso@gmail.com
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