Associations between eyestrain and neck–shoulder symptoms among call-center operators

Abstract

Objectives Few, if any, studies have investigated whether eyestrain and shoulder–neck symptoms are correlated, although functional links could be expected on the basis of neurophysiological evidence. This cross-sectional study assessed correlations between self-reported eyestrain and shoulder–neck symptoms among call center workers, while controlling for possible confounders for these ailments. Methods A questionnaire concerning socioeconomic background, work conditions, and symptoms was mailed to 1531 employees at 28 different call centers during 2001–2003. Results Altogether 21% of the responding participants (N=1183) reported both eyestrain and neck–shoulder symptoms, 46% reported neck–shoulder symptoms only, and 6% reported eye symptoms only; 27% were free from symptoms in these regions. A significant positive association was found between eyestrain and neck–shoulder symptoms. Significant covariates for shoulder–neck disorders were eyestrain (OR 1.6, P=0.007), gender (to be female) (OR 1.9, P