Development and validation of a job exposure matrix for physical risk factors in low back pain.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The aim was to construct and validate a gender-specific job exposure matrix (JEM) for physical exposures to be used in epidemiological studies of low back pain (LBP).

Materials and methods

We utilized two large Finnish population surveys, one to construct the JEM and another to test matrix validity. The exposure axis of the matrix included exposures relevant to LBP (heavy physical work, heavy lifting, awkward trunk posture and whole body vibration) and exposures that increase the biomechanical load on the low back (arm elevation) or those that in combination with other known risk factors could be related to LBP (kneeling or squatting). Job titles with similar work tasks and exposures were grouped. Exposure information was based on face-to-face interviews. Validity

SUBMITTER: Solovieva S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3495969 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature