Comparative Study of the Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders among Primary and Secondary School Teachers in the City of Cotonou (Benin)

Abstract

The objective is to compare the risk factors for MSDs among primary and secondary school teachers in Cotonou city. Cross sectional prospective study with a descriptive and analytical focus on 340 teachers: 170 in primary and 170 in secondary schools. Data collection was done using the standard Nordic MSDs questionnaire and a systematic physical examination. A logistic regression was done. Primary school teachers suffered more MSDs than secondary school teachers (80% vs. 69.4%, p=0.0025); scapulalgia (59.4% in primary school and 55.9% in secondary school) and neck pain (41.8% in primary school and 34.1% in secondary school) predominated in both categories. Factors associated with MSDs in both education subsectors were: seniority in employment (p=0.0006); stress (p=0.00135) and job dissatisfaction (p=0.0098). Job dissatisfaction and stress predominated among elementary school teachers (p<0.001). The prevalence of MSDs is higher among primary school teachers than among secondary school teachers. This may be related to the prevalence of psycho-social problems among primary school teachers. A revaluation of their working conditions is necessary to ensure their development at work and limit MSDs among them.