Work-related Musculoskeletal DisordersNCT07447219
The Effectiveness of Ergonomics Intervention Program to Reduce the Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal
A study testing Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in people with Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders, run by Universiti Putra Malaysia at 1 site in Malaysia.
Trial summary
This study evaluates an ergonomics intervention to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals, where up to 90% prevalence affects the lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper extremities due to repetitive tasks and postures. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 25 to 65 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders
- What is being tested?
- Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 110 participants
- Where
- 1 siteMalaysia
- Study dates
- 1 Mar 2024to 30 Mar 2027
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 25 to 65 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Dental healthcare workers currently active in their professional roles.
- Minimum of one year of professional experience to ensure adequate occupational exposure.
- Age range between 25 and 65 years to focus on the working-age population most at risk.
- Consent to participate in the study.
Who cannot join
- Individuals on extended leave or not currently practicing.
- History of upper limb injuries unrelated to work.
- Presence of neurological or rheumatological conditions.
- Severe systemic diseases such as multiple sclerosis or stage II hypertension.
- Recent surgeries involving the neck or shoulder.
- Pregnancy.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Malaysia1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Irniza Rasdi
Serdang, Selangor, 43300
IRNIZA RASDI, +603 9769 2602, irniza@upm.edu.my
FARAH ALHAMMADI, Master, +97156324 2666, gs69164@student.upm.edu.my
About this study
Official title: The Effectiveness of Ergonomics Intervention Program to Reduce the Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Dubai Healthcare Workers in Dubai (UAE)
This study evaluates an ergonomics intervention to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals, where up to 90% prevalence affects the lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper extremities due to repetitive tasks and postures. Using a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) across three hospitals (55 participants per intervention/control group), it assesses MSD prevalence/severity, mental health, physical activity, and KAP scores at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Analyses include logistic regression, ANOVA, and GEE. Expected outcomes: identify predictors and demonstrate intervention efficacy via education, environmental, and behavioral changes, informing UAE occupational health policies.
Read the detailed description
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an ergonomics intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals. MSDs pose significant occupational health challenges globally, especially among dental professionals, who often experience high prevalence of pain in the lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper extremities due to repetitive tasks, static postures, and patient handling. In Dubai and the broader UAE, these disorders affect up to 90% of dental healthcare workers, yet focused research and intervention programs remain limited. This research will be conducted in three phases. A cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness by comparing outcomes between intervention and control groups at baseline, post-intervention, and a three-month follow-up. Outcome measures include changes in MSD prevalence and severity, mental health impact, physical activity level, and KAP scores. Statistical analyses will include logistic regression, one-way ANOVA, and Generalized Estimating Equations to assess within- and between-group differences over time. This RCT will recruit 110 participants (55 per group), using cluster randomization of hospitals to prevent contamination. Participants must have at least one year of professional experience and be between 25 and 65 years old, excluding those with certain medical conditions or current leave. Expected outcomes include identifying significant socio-demographic, mental health, physical activity, and environmental predictors for MSDs, and demonstrating the intervention's effectiveness in reducing MSD risk factors and improving related health and behavioral outcomes. The study emphasizes the integration of ergonomic education with environmental and behavioral modifications to achieve sustainable improvements in dental workers' occupational health. This research addresses critical gaps in understanding and managing MSDs among dental healthcare workers in Dubai, providing evidence-based guidance for occupational health policies and practices. Its comprehensive, theory-driven intervention program has the potential to enhance the well-being, productivity, and retention of dental professionals, ultimately benefiting patient care quality in the rapidly growing UAE healthcare sector.
- Conditions
- Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Being tested
- Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)Other
Also called Educational intervention program
This intervention is based on the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), while enhancing ergonomics, mental health, and physical activity among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals. This program will include educational booklets, lectures, workshops, demonstrations, practical exercises, and stretching sessions over multiple weeks. The course will include six weekly teaching units (lectures, discussions, and hands-on practice, 45-60 minutes each): Topic 1: Understanding MSD causes and risk factors in dental practice. Topic 2: Ergonomic principles and proper postures. Topic 3: Optimizing equipment and operator-patient positioning. Topic 4: Recognizing early MSD symptoms and prevention strategies. Topic 5: Incorporating rest breaks and time management. Topic 6: Promoting physical activity and stretching routines.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Educational intervention program | Other | The intervention group will receive an educational intervention program to reduce and changes in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), Mental Health, Physical Activity, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Work-Related MSDs. Receives: Other: Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) |
| No Intervention: Control group | No intervention | The control group will not any educational intervention program |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in Musculoskeletal Disorders
Will be assessed via the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ; Hedge et al., 1999). Participants will self-report frequency (Never-Always), severity (Slight-Extreme), and interference (Likert scales) across body regions (neck, shoulders, back, limbs). The total score will be calculated as frequency × severity × interference.
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Secondary outcomes (5)
Improve in Mental Health
Will be measured with the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), comprising 12 items on social dysfunction, anxiety, and confidence loss (4-point Likert scale; total score range 0-36, with higher scores indicating greater distress). This tool has been validated for Arab populations (El-Metwally et al., 2018).
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Physical Activity
Will be evaluated using the Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire (BPAQ; Baecke et al., 1982), which includes 18 Likert items (1=Never-5=Always) across work, sports, and leisure domains. The total score will sum domain indices, with higher scores indicating greater activity (Adewale et al., 2016).
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Knowledge of Work-Related MSDs
Will be assessed with 30 trichotomous questions (Yes/No/I don't know) on risk factors, ergonomics, and prevention (scored 0-30; good/poor knowledge classified via median split) (Mulimani et al., 2018; Lietz et al., 2020).
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Attitude toward Work-Related MSDs
Will be measured using 25 items on a 5-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree-5=strongly agree; total score range 25-125; positive/negative attitudes classified via median split) covering risks and interventions (Mulimani et al., 2018; Lietz et al., 2020).
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Practice regarding Work-Related MSDs
Will be evaluated with 23 items on a 5-point Likert scale (Always-Never; total score range 23-115; satisfied/unsatisfied practices classified via median split) on MSD prevalence, risks, and ergonomic practices (Mulimani et al., 2018; Lietz et al., 2020).
Measured: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted3 Mar 2026
- Study start1 Mar 2024
- Primary completion1 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Mar 2027 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Work-related Musculoskeletal DisordersStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 110 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Universiti Putra Malaysia
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, FARAH ALI ABDULLA ALHAMMADI, Universiti Putra Malaysia
- Investigators
- IRNIZA RASDI, PhD, Study chair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07447219
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UPM-PhDFALHAMMADI
- Status last verified
- Feb 2026
- First submitted
- 25 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 3 Mar 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 3 Mar 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- The Effectiveness of Ergonomics Intervention Program to Reduce the Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Dubai Healthcare Workers in Dubai (UAE)
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07447219
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- UPM-PhDFALHAMMADI
- Conditions
- Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 110 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Universiti Putra MalaysiaUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Mar 2024 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Mar 2027 (estimated)
- First posted
- 3 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This study evaluates an ergonomics intervention to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals, where up to 90% prevalence affects the lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper extremities due to repetitive tasks and postures. Using a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) across three hospitals (55 participants per intervention/control group), it assesses MSD prevalence/severity, mental health, physical activity, and KAP scores at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Analyses include logistic regression, ANOVA, and GEE. Expected outcomes: identify predictors and demonstrate intervention efficacy via education, environmental, and behavioral changes, informing UAE occupational health policies.
Detailed description
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an ergonomics intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals. MSDs pose significant occupational health challenges globally, especially among dental professionals, who often experience high prevalence of pain in the lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper extremities due to repetitive tasks, static postures, and patient handling. In Dubai and the broader UAE, these disorders affect up to 90% of dental healthcare workers, yet focused research and intervention programs remain limited. This research will be conducted in three phases. A cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness by comparing outcomes between intervention and control groups at baseline, post-intervention, and a three-month follow-up. Outcome measures include changes in MSD prevalence and severity, mental health impact, physical activity level, and KAP scores. Statistical analyses will include logistic regression, one-way ANOVA, and Generalized Estimating Equations to assess within- and between-group differences over time. This RCT will recruit 110 participants (55 per group), using cluster randomization of hospitals to prevent contamination. Participants must have at least one year of professional experience and be between 25 and 65 years old, excluding those with certain medical conditions or current leave. Expected outcomes include identifying significant socio-demographic, mental health, physical activity, and environmental predictors for MSDs, and demonstrating the intervention's effectiveness in reducing MSD risk factors and improving related health and behavioral outcomes. The study emphasizes the integration of ergonomic education with environmental and behavioral modifications to achieve sustainable improvements in dental workers' occupational health. This research addresses critical gaps in understanding and managing MSDs among dental healthcare workers in Dubai, providing evidence-based guidance for occupational health policies and practices. Its comprehensive, theory-driven intervention program has the potential to enhance the well-being, productivity, and retention of dental professionals, ultimately benefiting patient care quality in the rapidly growing UAE healthcare sector.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Educational intervention program | Other | Other: Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)The intervention group will receive an educational intervention program to reduce and changes in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), Mental Health, Physical Activity, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Work-Related MSDs. |
| No Intervention: Control group | No intervention | –The control group will not any educational intervention program |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 25 to 65 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Dental healthcare workers currently active in their professional roles.
- Minimum of one year of professional experience to ensure adequate occupational exposure.
- Age range between 25 and 65 years to focus on the working-age population most at risk.
- Consent to participate in the study.
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Individuals on extended leave or not currently practicing.
- History of upper limb injuries unrelated to work.
- Presence of neurological or rheumatological conditions.
- Severe systemic diseases such as multiple sclerosis or stage II hypertension.
- Recent surgeries involving the neck or shoulder.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)Also: Educational intervention programThis intervention is based on the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), while enhancing ergonomics, mental health, and physical activity among dental healthcare workers in Dubai government hospitals. This program will include educational booklets, lectures, workshops, demonstrations, practical exercises, and stretching sessions over multiple weeks. The course will include six weekly teaching units (lectures, discussions, and hands-on practice, 45-60 minutes each): Topic 1: Understanding MSD causes and risk factors in dental practice. Topic 2: Ergonomic principles and proper postures. Topic 3: Optimizing equipment and operator-patient positioning. Topic 4: Recognizing early MSD symptoms and prevention strategies. Topic 5: Incorporating rest breaks and time management. Topic 6: Promoting physical activity and stretching routines. | Other | Educational intervention program |
Primary outcome
Change in Musculoskeletal Disorders
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Will be assessed via the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ; Hedge et al., 1999). Participants will self-report frequency (Never-Always), severity (Slight-Extreme), and interference (Likert scales) across body regions (neck, shoulders, back, limbs). The total score will be calculated as frequency × severity × interference.
5 secondary outcomes
Improve in Mental Health
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Physical Activity
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Knowledge of Work-Related MSDs
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Attitude toward Work-Related MSDs
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Improve in Practice regarding Work-Related MSDs
Time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 3 Mar 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
IRNIZA RASDI, PhD study chair
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Educational intervention program to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in people with Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders, run by Universiti Putra Malaysia at 1 site in Malaysia.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 3 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Malaysia. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact FARAH ALHAMMADI, Master (+971 56 324 2666, gs69164@student.upm.edu.my), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in Musculoskeletal Disorders (time frame: T1 = Baseline. T2= One month's post-intervention. T3= Three months Follow up.). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 3 Mar 2026.