Associations between body mass index and musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms in different body regions among workers

Obesity rates are high among employed adults and have shown a consistent increase over the past few decades. Musculoskeletal disorders related to work are a major cause of disability in working individuals. The objective of this study was to verify the associations between weight status and musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms in different body regions among workers. The sample comprised 203 factory workers. Anthropometric measures were assessed with standardized protocols and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Participants were classified as nonoverweight (BMI ≤ 24.9 kg/m2) or overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms was assessed with the Nordic Questionnaire of Osteoarticular Symptoms. The association of BMI and musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms was analyzed with logistic regression. Overweight/obese participants were more likely to have musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms in the shoulders (odds ratio [OR] = 2.129, p = .023). Our results emphasize the need of worksite interventions to promote healthy weight as a way to prevent musculoskeletal pain and related symptoms.