Korean J Occup Health Nurs.  2021 Aug;30(3):120-131. 10.5807/kjohn.2021.30.3.120.

Comparison of the Effects of an App-based and Poster-based Self-managed Workplace Stretching Program on Musculoskeletal Symptoms of Workers in Small Manufacturing Businesses

• Lee RS
• Chae D
• Kim J

• KMID: 2537002
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5807/kjohn.2021.30.3.120

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to compare the effects of an 8 week, self-managed, app-based and poster-based stretching program on musculoskeletal symptoms, flexibility, stretching frequency, self-efficacy, social support, and musculoskeletal disorder knowledge in small manufacturing business workers.
Methods
This was a cluster randomized, two-group pretest-posttest design. Workers were assigned to either an app-based (n=20) or a posterbased (n=25) stretching intervention. Both groups received an educational class. The app group also received mobile phone text messages and an app with stretching videos, stretching alarms, stretching records, and information on musculoskeletal disorders. The poster group received workplace stretching posters. Data were collected from April to September 2018 and analyzed with the χ² test, paired t-test, and independent t-test.
Results
There was only a significant difference in social support. Significant increase in flexibility and musculoskeletal symptoms were noted for both groups, but social support and musculoskeletal disorder knowledge were significantly changed only in the poster group. More than half of the workers practiced stretching at least 3 times a week.
Conclusion
The 8 week, self-managed, workplace stretching program was effective to increase flexibility and stretching frequency to at least 3 times a week. However, effective interventions for musculoskeletal symptoms could not be identified.

Keyword

Workplace; Musculoskeletal disease; Stretching; Mobile applications