Associations between work-related musculoskeletal symptoms, physical activity, and quality of life among vocational high school students: A cross-sectional comparative study

BackgroundEarly exposure to different physical workloads during vocational education may influence musculoskeletal symptoms, physical activity patterns, and quality of life before entry into working life. Understanding these relationships is important for preventive rehabilitation strategies.ObjectiveTo compare musculoskeletal symptoms, physical activity levels, and health-related quality of life between vocational high school students from different programs and to examine the associations among these variables.MethodsThis study included 216 vocational high school students (111 electrical and electronics technology; 105 furniture and interior design). Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, musculoskeletal symptoms using the McGill Pain Questionnaire, and quality of life using the Short Form-36. Between group comparisons were performed using Mann-Whitney U tests, and correlations were analyzed using Spearman coefficients.ResultsPhysical functioning and general health scores were also significantly higher in the electrical and electronics technology program. Although total MPQ scores did not differ significantly between the groups, furniture and interior design students reported higher pain intensity and MPQ miscellaneous scores. Significant negative correlations were identified between MPQ scores and several SF-36 subscales, particularly bodily pain, physical functioning, and general health. Associations between physical activity measures and MPQ scores were generally weak and varied according to activity type.ConclusionsAlthough pain severity was similar across departments, physical activity and functional status differed. Musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with reduced quality of life, emphasizing the importance of early assessment and preventive strategies among vocational high school students exposed to different physical workloads.