Association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal discomfort among firefighters under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal discomforts are common in firefighters. The associated factors of musculoskeletal discomforts among firefighters in Thailand are however limited.

Objectives: To study the relationship between factors-personal factors, occupational factors, and physical fitness factors-and musculoskeletal discomfort among firefighters in Bangkok.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 234 firefighters in various fire stations in Bangkok. Data were collected from October to November 2022, by using questionnaires including personal factors, work-related factors, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and physical fitness test-body weight, height, grip strength, leg strength, and flexibility. The data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics including bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression.

Results: The results showed the related factors associated with musculoskeletal discomfort at any parts of the body, (as analyzed by logistic regression and adjusted by confounding factors), were history of previous job or extra job being at risk for musculoskeletal discomfort (OR 3.0, 95% CI = 1.5 - 6.2), ex-smokers (OR 2.2, 95% CI = 1.1 - 4.6) and ex-alcohol drinkers (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.2 - 6.5). Regarding physical fitness, the associated factors with musculoskeletal discomforts were lower flexibility (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1 - 3.7) and lower grip strength (OR 0.5, 95.0% CU 0.3 - 1.0).

Conclusion: Musculoskeletal discomforts among firefighters are related to personal factors - including history of previous job or extra job, smoking, alcohol drinking, and physical fitness factor- i.e., lower flexibility. This study suggests health promotion programs to these firefighters to reduce modifiable risk factors, including smoking cessation campaign and regular exercise emphasizes in stretching.