Affiliations: Division of Physical Therapy, Department of
Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA,
USA | Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University,
Atlanta, GA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Megan Brock, 1462 Clifton Road NE
Suite {\#}312, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. Tel.: +1 404 838 8006; Fax: +1 404 712
4130; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Objective: Musculoskeletal injuries are recognized as an important
health issue for farmworkers. This study aimed to assess musculoskeletal health
in South Georgia farmworkers through an exploration of pain status, health
beliefs, occupational tasks, work conditions, access to care, and
demographics. Participants: Interviews were conducted with 83 farmworkers at pro
bono medical clinics. Methods: Mixed methods interview topics, based upon an adapted
theoretical model, included: work history, current work practices,
musculoskeletal symptoms, health beliefs, acculturation, general health, access
to care, and demographics. Results: Pain was reported by 81.9% of participants. The low back
(57.4%) and mid back (52.9%) were the most commonly reported sites of pain.
Adapted model constructs were identified quantitatively and qualitatively.
Open-ended responses described health beliefs, barriers to accessing care, and
farmworkers' sense of responsibility to provide for their families. Conclusions: Data revealed that musculoskeletal pain is common and
suggest associations with work tasks and conditions. Numerous barriers to
accessing care exist and must be considered. Solutions may include farm-based
prevention, enhanced education, improved measurement tools, and ongoing use of
ecological models to guide research and interventions.
