136 Chronic Widespread pain (CWP) and Job Satisfaction among the Three Wheeler Taxi (Tuk Tuk) Drivers in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Objectives Three wheeler taxies are a very common mode of public transportation in Sri Lanka and other south Asian countries. These are three-wheeled vehicles with a cabin for drivers and passengers. In Sri Lanka these vehicles are commonly called “tuk-tuks”. Working as a tuk tuk driver is an important source of employment for many Sri Lankan men. It has been reported that these drivers are commonly seeking medical care for chronic musculoskeletal pain. However this problem has not been studied systematically. Therefore, this research was carried out with the objective of study the CWP, other chronic joint pains and job satisfaction among the tuk tuk drivers in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka.

Methods This study was carried out among a sample of tuk tuk drivers, working in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka. Cluster sampling method was used to select the sample. A criterion given in the “Manchester Definition” for CWP was used for the identification of CWP. Data was collected using a self administered structured questionnaire.

Results Two hundred and twenty tuk tuk drivers were participated in the study. Mean age of drivers was 28.50 years with the range of 19 years to 77 years. Most (81.8%) had an education up to grade 10. Mean duration of work as tuk tuk driver is 6.7 years. 29.5% of drivers were found to have CWP. Shoulder pain was the most prevalent (22.7%) individual joint problem. Other reported problems include Back pain (20.0%) neck pain (18.6%), knee pain (15.9%) and wrist pain (11.4%). 47.7% drivers were satisfied about their job. Significantly higher proportion of drivers with CWP were unsatisfied about their job compared to drivers without CWP (P < 0.05).

Conclusion Almost 30% of tuk tuk drivers were found to have CWP. And drivers with CWP are less likely to be satisfied with their job.

https://doi.org/10.1136/oemed-2013-101717.136