Exercise plus ergonomics training for construction workers

Effectiveness of Exercises Given Along With Ergonomics Training in Construction Workers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This project will test whether adding a supervised exercise program to ergonomics training reduces pain and improves function in construction workers with work-related musculoskeletal pain.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 52 (estimated)
• Ages: 25 Years to 55 Years
• Sex: Male
• Sponsor: Uskudar University (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Balıkesir, Edremit)
• Trial ID: NCT07157800 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is a randomized controlled study conducted in Edremit, Balıkesir, led by a physiotherapist. Construction workers who meet eligibility criteria will be randomly assigned by sealed envelope to either ergonomics training alone or ergonomics training plus a supervised exercise program. The exercise group will attend 45–60 minute sessions three times per week for 12 weeks, with adherence tracked on an exercise chart. Pain and functional outcomes will be recorded to compare the two groups.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are male construction workers aged 25–55 who have had back, knee, neck, wrist, or shoulder pain for at least 3 months with a VAS pain score ≥3, work 45+ hours per week, have had no surgery in the past year, and can consent and attend thrice-weekly sessions.

Not a fit: People with respiratory, orthopedic, or neurological diseases, psychological disorders that affect pain perception, recent surgery, or who do not meet the age, work-hour, or pain criteria are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, adding exercises to ergonomics training could reduce musculoskeletal pain and improve function and work ability in construction workers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous workplace studies combining ergonomics education with exercise programs have generally shown modest to moderate reductions in musculoskeletal pain and functional improvements, so this approach builds on prior positive findings.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Male individuals aged 25-55
* Individuals with a visual analog scale score of ≥ 3 and a functional loss that does not completely limit their daily life
* Complaints of back, knee, neck, wrist, or shoulder pain for the last 3 months
* No surgical intervention within the last year
* Working 45 hours or more per week
* Individuals who volunteered to participate in the study and signed a written informed consent form, understanding the purpose and process of the study

Exclusion Criteria

* Presence of a respiratory system disease
* Presence of an orthopedic or neurological disease
* Presence of a psychological disorder that may affect pain perception (e.g., depression, anxiety)

Where this trial is running

Balıkesir, Edremit

• Building — Balıkesir, Edremit, Turkey (Türkiye) (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Ömer ŞEVGİN

Conditions: Work-related Illness