Work and lifestyle factors associated with musculoskeletal pain among professional cleaners: a cross-sectional study

<i>Objectives</i>. Among cleaners, lower back pain (LBP) and neck/shoulder pain (NSP) are prevalent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Despite their high occurrence, the underlying causes of LBP and NSP in this population remain largely unknown, suggesting a multifactorial aetiology. This study aims to assess the association between various lifestyle, physical and psychosocial factors with LBP and NSP in professional cleaners. <i>Methods</i>. The study included cleaners from the Danish Work Environment and Health study 2012-2018 with a total of 1042 responses. The cleaners filled in a questionnaire about their work environment, lifestyle and health. Associations between a range of work and lifestyle factors (predictors) with LBP and NSP (outcome) were estimated using general linear models. <i>Results</i>. When controlling for various confounders, cleaners experiencing high physical exertion during work showed higher LBP and NSP compared with those experiencing low and moderate physical exertion (<i>p</i> < 0.0001). Low recognition from management was also associated with higher LBP and NSP (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Several factors did not reach statistical significance: smoking, leisure physical activity, influence at work and support from colleagues. <i>Conclusion</i>. This cross-sectional study showed that obesity, high physical exertion during work and low recognition from management were associated with higher LBP and NSP.