Development and efficacy evaluation of a personalised self-care programme for reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders among rubber farmers in Thailand

INTRODUCTION: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), the most common causes of work-related pain, suffering, absenteeism, and disability, are a major health concern for rubber farmers. WMSDs are persistent and frequently recur, resulting in increased health burdens for workers. Fortunately, appropriate intervention may relieve discomfort. Specified interventions have been recommended to reduce incidences of WMSD. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of a personalised self-care programme (PSCP) for relieving pain caused by WMSDs among rubber farmers. METHODS: Demographic data and details concerning the prevalence of pain regions were collected using a questionnaire adapted from the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (IOC 1.00). The evidence gained from modified questionnaires and special tests was used to develop the PSCP. The PSCP was verified by three experts (IOC 1.00). Based on the questionnaires, only participants with a pain score of 3 or higher were recruited for the study. The PSCP's efficacy was evaluated by comparing the results before application and after 28 days. A numerical rating scale was employed to estimate the degree of pain. The pathogeneses of WMSDs were confirmed with a special test performed by a physical therapist. Additionally, the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 were measured to determine the PSCP's effect on inflammatory molecules. The efficacy of the PSCP was analysed using a paired t-test. RESULTS: The results showed that farmers experienced the greatest discomfort in the lower back, followed by the shoulders, legs, and neck. Therefore, this PSCP was designed to alleviate work-related musculoskeletal pain in these body regions. A reduction in pain by two degrees was observed after 28 days of the PSCP ([Formula: see text] (before) = 5.26, SD = 1.96, [Formula: see text] (after) = 2.40, SD = 1.64, p < 0.001). Special tests confirmed that the number of pain regions were also decreased ([Formula: see text] (before) = 0.089, SD = 0.067, [Formula: see text] (after) = 0.016, SD = 0.030, p < 0.001). In addition, IL-10 levels increased (p ≤ 0.001) following the PSCP, whereas IL-6 levels remained unaltered. CONCLUSIONS: After 28 days of use, the PSCP was effective at reducing pain levels, decreasing pain regions, and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory molecules. This finding demonstrates that the PSCP could help alleviate work-related musculoskeletal pain among rubber farmers. The PSCP may be an appropriate intervention for alleviating pain.