The purpose of this study was to describe, and analyse the effect of an intervention on, the biomechanical workload in the neck and
shoulder region of female hairdressers.
Arm elevation was measured by inclinometers and muscular load of m. trapezius by electromyography. The intervention comprised
working technique recommendations, e.g. to work with less elevated arms and more relaxed muscles. The subjects were randomised
between two different intensity levels of the intervention, one with written information only and the other with additional personal
follow-up. The effect of the intervention was evaluated after 1–2 months.
The hairdressers worked with their arms elevated 601 or more for approximately 13% of the total working time and 16% during the
specific hairdressing tasks. The intervention group including personal follow-up instructions had a reduction in workload from 4.0% to
2.5% of hairdressing time with highly elevated right upper arm, i.e. above 901. No effect was detected on muscular load or neck and
shoulder symptoms after the intervention