The Impact of Lower Extremity Fatigue on Lower Quadrant Dysfunction and Health Profile in Hairdressers

BACKGROUND: Although lower extremity pain and fatigue are important conditions for hairdressers, such occupational issues are poorly documented. This study aimed to determine lower extremity fatigue and related factors in hairdressers. METHODS: The study population consisted of at least 18 years old individuals working as hairdressers. Lower Extremity Fatigue was assessed with 2 questions containing a 5-point Likert scale. A numerical fatigue rating scale was used to assess general fatigue level, a visual analog scale was used to assess occupational satisfaction, Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) was used to assess health profile, and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was used to assess lower quadrant pain profile. RESULTS: In the assessment of lower extremity pain, a statistically significant difference was found between Fatigue and Non-fatigue groups in the lower back (p=0.011), left knee (p=0.012), right (p=0.017) and left (p=0.012) lower leg parameters. In the lower extremity Weighted Scores, there was no significant difference between the fatigue and non-fatigue groups in the pelvis (p=0.365), right upper leg (p=0.153), left upper leg (p=0.156), right knee (p=0.054) but there were significant differences in the lower back (p=0.002), left knee (p=0.023), right lower leg (p=0.006) and left lower leg (p=0.017). The difference in the Energy, Pain, and Physical Mobility sub-dimensions of the Nottingham Health Profile of the hairdressers in the ‘Fatigue Group’ was at a significant level. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the rate of lower extremity fatigue found in hairdressers in the present study was quite high, and lower extremity fatigue was associated with lower extremity pain and health profile.