Methodological quality of studies in the impact of physical activity in occupational musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review

The musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in the occupational setting, and potentially disabling, consuming a large proportion of health care resources. Since most of the working age adults is about 1/3 of the day at work and assuming documented benefits of physical activity, in general, it is anticipated that a particular program may reduce the number and severity of musculoskeletal disorders in occupational setting, in this case providing the workplace a viable alternative to the promotion of workers' health. Despite the statistically significant results in improving quality of life in individuals with musculoskeletal disorders in the context of most occupational studies, can not be conclude with evidence, how, physical exercise programs are truly effective physiologically and reduce impact of musculoskeletal disorders in companies. The studies are generally of low methodological quality, with different risks of bias that uncertainty variety of data (including the type, method and features training), does not allow a generalization of the practice with methodological certainties. Remain valid set guidelines for programming physical activity at work have an impact on physiological functions of the worker as well as a common denomination for this potentially useful tool in occupational health. Other randomized controlled studies with more methodological quality are needed.