Analysis of the Effect of Workplace Stretching Exercise On Musculoskeletal Disorders At Pt. Sucofindo Makassar

Abstract

Introduction: The ILO reports 2.78 million deaths annually from occupational accidents and diseases, with MSDs affecting 1.71 billion people worldwide. At PT Sucofindo Makassar, workers, especially those with over 3 years of service, face MSD complaints due to poor posture and long hours, highlighting the need for workplace stretching exercises to reduce these issues.

Objectives: This study aims to examine the effect of the implementation of stretching exercises in the workplace in reducing musculoskeletal complaints in workers at PT Sucofindo Makassar.

Methods: This study used a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test control groups, involving 100 workers at PT Sucofindo Makassar, aged 25-65, with MSD complaints, normal BMI, and at least 1 year of work experience, divided into experimental and control groups, using questionnaires and various tools for data collection and analysis with SPSS.

Results: The majority of respondents in both experimental [94%] and control [96%] groups had non-ergonomic postures. In the experimental group, the mean Nordic Body Map score decreased from 58.64 [pre-test] to 49.68 [post-test], while the control group showed minimal change [58.40 to 58.42]. In the experimental group, 98% had moderate MSD complaints pre-test, but post-test complaints decreased, with 52% experiencing moderate complaints, and 0% experiencing high complaints. The paired sample T-test showed a significant reduction in MSDs for the experimental group [p=0.000], but no significant change in the control group [p=0.948].

Conclusions: The implementation of Workplace Stretching Exercise [WSE] can significantly reduce MSDs complaints in workers with non-ergonomic work postures, improving their comfort and productivity. Therefore, companies should consider implementing a routine WSE program as part of their occupational health and safety program to minimize the risk of MSDs.