Prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms among women handloom weavers in Lampang Province, Thailand

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Background/Aim</h3> Handloom weaving involves highly repetitive manual operations and sustained static postures, which contribute to the onset of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with MSS among women handloom weavers. <h3>Materials and methods</h3> A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 150 handloom weavers in Lampang Province, Thailand, selected through a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire encompassing demographic characteristics, working conditions, self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS), and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors associated with MSS. <h3>Results</h3> The results indicated that the prevalence of MSS was 76.0% in the past 7 days and 82.7% in the past 12 months. The three body parts with the highest prevalence rates of MSS were the shoulder (68.0%), knee (63.3%), and upper arm (54.7%). Over 44.0% of working postures were classified as having a medium risk level. A multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that chronic disease, number of working days per week, and working posture were significantly associated with MSS (<i>p</i><0.05). <h3>Conclusions</h3> These findings emphasize the need for further study to develop targeted occupational ergonomic interventions aimed at enhancing safety and preventive health strategies for handloom weavers experiencing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS).