HEALTH EDUCATION IN THE PREVENTION OF RSI/WRULD

A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Extensive computer work, coupled with inadequate postures, contributes to repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD), which affect muscles, tendons, and joints, harming the worker's health. The purpose of this article was to understand the content addressed in health education for the prevention of RSI/WRMD. This is a literature review of studies published in the Google Scholar and SciELO databases, from 2000 to 2021. The descriptors RSI/WRMD in worker health were used. After eligibility criteria, fifteen studies were included, including systematic reviews and case reports. The articles discuss Regulatory Standard No. 17 (NR-17), which provides guidance on ergonomics and aims to adapt the corporate environment to the psychophysiological characteristics of workers. The implementation of preventive measures encourages more appropriate postures, breaks during the workday, and adaptation of workplace furniture, thus valuing the worker's well-being and promoting strategies to minimize the risks of occupational diseases. Based on the reviewed articles, it is concluded that implementing ergonomic practices is essential to improve the health of professionals. Taking breaks and stretching throughout the day in the workplace is a strategy to prevent long-term musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, ergonomics is an interdisciplinary science that seeks to adapt working conditions to the physical profile of human beings, aiming to reduce risks and improve the efficiency of activities.

Keywords: Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) / Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs); Ergonomics; Occupational Health; Physiotherapy.