Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among rural middle-aged women in Korea: a qualitative photovoice study

Purpose: This study explored the work-related musculoskeletal health management experiences of middle-aged female farmers in rural areas of South Korea, focusing on how they recognize, experience, and respond to chronic musculoskeletal symptoms in their daily agricultural work environment. Methods: A qualitative design using the photovoice method was employed with five participants aged 40~60 years, selected via purposive sampling. Participants were asked to take photographs reflecting their musculoskeletal symptoms and related health practices. Data collected through photographs taken by the participants, and group interviews were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-step thematic analysis. Results: The analysis revealed four central themes: (1) physical wear from daily work; (2) unseen and unacknowledged pain; (3) barriers to seeking musculoskeletal relief; and (4) adaptive self-management strategies. Conclusion: The study underscores the multidimensional challenges faced by middle-aged female farmers in managing musculoskeletal health. The photovoice method effectively captured their lived realities and provided context-specific implications for developing culturally sensitive, gender-informed, and community-based nursing interventions. These findings carry implications for rural health policy, nursing practice, and participatory research approaches in underserved populations.