Effect of non-surgical interventions on pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue: an exploratory systematic review based on randomized controlled trials

Hiroharu Kamioka; Hiroyasu Okuizumi; Shuichi Handa; Jun Kitayuguchi; Reiko Machida

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Effect of non-surgical interventions on pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue: an exploratory systematic review based on randomized controlled trials

VernacularTitle:Effect of non-surgical interventions on pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue: an exploratory systematic review based on randomized controlled trials
Author: Hiroharu KAMIOKA ¹ ; Hiroyasu OKUIZUMI ² ; Shuichi HANDA ³ ; Jun KITAYUGUCHI ⁴ ; Reiko MACHIDA ⁵
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1. Department of Ecological Symbiotic Science, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan
2. Mimaki Onsen (Spa) Clinic, Japan
3. Physical Education and Medicine Research Foundation, Japan
4. Physical Education and Medicine Research Center Unnan, Japan
5. Development of Regional Regeneration Science, Faculty of Regional Environment Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan
Keywords: farmer; randomized controlled trials; musculoskeletal system; connective tissue; pain
From:Journal of Rural Medicine 2022;17(1):1-13
CountryJapan
Language:English
Abstract: Objective: There are many observational and clinical studies on pain treatment in farmers; however, little is known about the effects of interventions based only on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue (D-MSCT). This review aimed to summarize evidence on the effects of non-surgical interventions for pain relief and symptom improvement in farmers with D-MSCT.Materials and Methods: We searched seven databases, including MEDLINE, and three clinical trial registries, including the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, from inception up to February 15, 2021, to identify studies that included at least one treatment group wherein nonsurgical interventions were applied. We focused on 1) pain relief and symptom improvement and 2) quality of life and improvement in physical fitness.Results: Four studies (three on low back pain and one on knee osteoarthritis) met all the inclusion criteria. Overall, the risk of bias was high, and meta-analysis could not be performed due to heterogeneity. However, a participatory ergonomic approach, exercise centered on strength training with a transtheoretical model, and/or a combination of both could be included in effective educational programs, at least in the short term, to prevent and/or reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. Based on internal and external validity, we could postulate a future research agenda and a conceptual education model to prevent D-MSCT in farmers.Conclusion: Participatory ergonomic intervention, exercise centered on strength training, and/or a combination of both could be included for effective educational programs to prevent and reduce exacerbation of D-MSCT in farmers. High-quality RCTs with a less risk of bias will be implemented for many agricultural work types in various parts worldwide (especially developing countries and regions) during the COVID-19 pandemic.