Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Barbers of Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad: A Cross-sectional Study

Dr. Yash Limbachiya, Dr. Mohit Bipin Shah, Dr. Parita Dave

Abstract: Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) present remarkable health and economic burdens on societies. Occupational barbers are usually neglected in research and policy actions, particularly in developing countries like India where informal sectors such as barbershops are poorly documented. Objective: To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and identify risk factors affecting work-related musculoskeletal disorders among barbers of Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 214 professional barbers from Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad cities. The Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for WRMSDs was administered to measure prevalence. Participants included both male and female barbers aged 20-50 years, working daily for at least 4 hours with minimum 6 months of experience. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16 with 95% confidence intervals. Results: With a response rate of 94.39% (n=202), the prevalence of WRMSDs was 76.24% (n=154). Significant risk factors included age >30 years [AOR: 2.612; 95% CI (1.289, 5.305)], frequent standing [AOR: 1.534; 95% CI (1.008, 2.344)], uncomfortable posture at work [AOR: 3.50; 95% CI (1.53-8.26)], and lack of physical exercise [AOR: 1.936; 95% CI (1.214, 3.087)]. Ankle/feet pain showed the strongest correlation with increasing age (attributable risk: 0.41). Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among barbers in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad. Age, duration of employment, working hours, and inadequate rest periods are significant risk factors. These findings highlight the importance of implementing preventive measures including ergonomic interventions, workplace modifications, and health education programs.

Keywords: Barbers, hairdressers, Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, Standardized Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, occupational health, ergonomics

How to Cite?: Dr. Yash Limbachiya, Dr. Mohit Bipin Shah, Dr. Parita Dave, "Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Barbers of Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad: A Cross-sectional Study", Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 796-801, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25917154643, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25917154643