Objectives. This study was to determine the prevalence and work-related risk factors of neck–upper extremity
musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among video display terminal (VDT) users. Methods. A comparative
cross-sectional study was conducted; there were 60 VDT users and 35 controls. The participants filled in a
structured questionnaire, had electrophysiological tests and an X-ray of the neck. Results. The prevalence of
MSDs was higher (28.3%) among VDTs users compared to controls (14.3%) with no statistically significant
difference. The prevalence of cervical disorders with or without radiculopathy (18.3%) was the most common
disorder followed by carpal tunnel syndrome (6.6%). The mean (SD) age of MSD cases (51 ± 7.2 years) was
statistically significantly higher than of the controls (42.8 ± 9). Physical exposure to prolonged static posture
(OR: 6.9; 95% CI: 0.83–57.9), awkward posture (OR: 5.5; 95% CI: 0.6–46.4) and repetitive movements (OR:
5.5; 95% CI: 0.65–46.4) increased risk of MSDs with a statistically significant difference for static posture
only (p < .05). VDT users experienced more job dissatisfaction, work-overload and limited social support
from supervisors and colleagues. Conclusion. VDT use did not increase the risk of neck–upper extremity
MSDs. The risk increased with older age and static posture.
work-related musculoskeletal disorders carpal tunnel synd