Work performance: The impact of body mass index, physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness levels in computer users with neck pain

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Fitzpatrick, Siobhan | Fullen, Brona M.

Affiliations: UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Population Science, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland

Note: [] Corresponding author: Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Physiotherapy Department, Waterford Regional Hospital, Waterford, Ireland. Tel.: +353 51 842330; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study examined the association between body mass index (BMI), physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness levels on work performance with and without neck pain in habitual computer users. METHODS: Forty participants with and without neck pain were recruited and completed a battery of measures: body composition (BMI), physical activity levels (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), cardiorespiratory fitness (Chester Step Test) and work performance (Health and Work Performance Questionnaire). MAIN RESULTS: Body mass index, physical fitness and cardiorespiratory fitness were not significantly associated with the three domains of workplace performance; absenteeism, presenteeism and critical incidents. However, a significant association was found between neck disability and the incidence of headaches/migraines and fatigue/sleep disturbance. CONCLUSION: Mild neck pain in habitual computer users does not significantly influence work performance, although the association between the co-morbidities (headaches/migraine and fatigue/sleep disturbance) should be considered in those presenting for treatment with mild neck pain.

Keywords: Occupational health, absenteeism, presenteeism, neck pain

DOI: 10.3233/PPR-140043

Journal: Physiotherapy Practice and Research, vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 67-74, 2014