Objectives: This study was conducted to identify the effect of a stretching exercise on myofascial pain syndrome patients that work in small and medium-sized industry.
Methods: Questionnaires surveys including general characteristics, work-related characteristics, and musculoskeletal symptoms on neck and shoulder area was administered to 393 subjects who worked in small and medium sized industries. Symptomatic workers were examined to identify whether they had myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). Of the 393 subjects, 108 MPS patients performed 6 weeks stretching exercise program. Intensity of pain was estimated with visual analogue scales (VAS). All patients were interviewed to estimate their compliance to stretching exercise program.
Conclusion: The Stretching exercise program was identified to be effective in MPS patients in small and medium-sized industries. It is recommended that workers with MPS in small and medium-sized industries practice a well-designed stretching exercise program, and avoid overtime work.