Effectiveness of the self static stretching strengthening program on physical performances in market vendors: a Quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Introduction: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) often occurs within the market vendor group. This study design is a Self-Static Stretching and Strengthening program for market vendors for reducing and/or preventing WRMDs. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of the Self-Static Stretching and Strengthening program (SSS program) compared with ergonomic knowledge on physical performances in market vendors. Methods: This study design was a quasi-experimental study with the control group. Base on convenience, the Samyan market was placed into the intervention group and the Ortorkor market was placed into the control group. The market vendors who volunteered were asked to complete the questionnaire and were measured muscle pain, muscle flexibility, and grip strength. As well, the market vendors who met the criteria were recruited to this study. The market vendors in the intervention group performed SSS program with physical therapists 3 times a week for 4 weeks and they were asked to perform this program by themselves for 6 months. Both groups were assessed at 5-time points. Repeated measures ANCOVA was used for determining the effects of SSS program on physical performances. Result: After final implementation, there were 131 participants attended the study (intervention group = 56, control group =75). There was no statistically significant difference in participant characteristics between both groups. After the intervention program was completed, there were significant differences in the degree of pain between both groups in the lower back area and at the left leg area at post-intervention and 1-month follow up (p<0.05). There were significant differences in muscle flexibility between groups at post-intervention and 1-month, 3-months and 6 months follow up (p<0.05). Conclusion: The Self-Static Stretching and Strengthening program has effective for reducing muscle pain at the lower back and legs and improving muscle flexibility when compared between both groups. The results of this study may be generalized to market vendors in other markets within a similar context.