earticle

영어

Purpose : This study aimed to examine the relationship between frequency of physically demanding work activities, and work-related musculoskeletal pain among teachers in childcare centers. Methods : An online survey was conducted on 196 teachers employed at public childcare centers in metropolitan areas of South Korea. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis. Results : A total of 93.9% of participants reported experiencing musculoskeletal pain in at least one body region within the past year. The most frequently affected areas, in the order of reported pain severity, were the lower back, shoulders, neck, and hands·wrists·fingers. Tasks involving frequent bending and lifting—such as those performed during outdoor play guidance, naptime assistance, and mealtime supervision—were significantly correlated with greater lower back pain. Pain severity was also associated with teachers’ age, years of experience, homeroom assignment, and the absence of assistant teachers. Conclusion : Work-related musculoskeletal pain among childcare center teachers is concentrated in specific upper-body regions and is significantly associated with the frequency and nature of physically demanding tasks. Individual characteristics and occupational conditions also influence pain severity. To mitigate work-related musculoskeletal pain, systematic task analysis, ergonomic interventions, strategic staffing of assistant teachers, and implementation of health promotion programs are recommended. Further research can expand these findings to a broader range of childcare settings and occupational structures.