Musculoskeletal disorders in teleworkers of the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad

Abstract Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led various organizations to take health measures to contain the deadly disease. For this reason, teleworking emerges as one of the most contributing actions in stopping mass infections. Although the modality remains today, there are many aspects regarding the occupational health and safety of these workers who work from home. Methods: By sending an email with a link to a Google Forms®, this study sought to estimate the prevalence of symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders and their main associated teleworking conditions. A collection instrument based on the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaire was used. Results: It was determined that people who exercise the most are those who are more likely to enjoy better self-reported physical health (p=0.01, chi-square), also it was found that women spend longer periods of time in a seated position (p=0.04, Kruskal-Wallis test). Those who reported perception of physical health (fair to good) and a mild to severe level of stress, have a greater association with disorders in the lower limb (p=0.06 and p=0.003, respectively). Being of the feminine gender and to present left hand dominant (p=0.06 and p=0.003, respectively) have a greater association with problems at the neck level. Conclusiones: having perception of physical health (fair to good) and a mild to severe level of stress, have a greater association with disorders in the lower limb. Being of the feminine gender and to present left hand dominant have a greater association with problems at the neck level.