To evaluate the effects of a software program that stimulates extra breaks with a personalized self-program exercises form, on pain and/or function, among computer workers who have upper-limb musculoskeletal disorders with visual discomfort [1 Clinical examination protocol for upper-limb musculoskeletal disorders identification. French adaptation of European consensus SALTSA  : InVs-INRS (2010). 

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A cluster randomized controlled trial was performed. Each group was composed of symptomatic and asymptomatic employees. We conducted a prospective feasibility study developed in two different sites of Michelin firm. Cluster randomization was used for office locations. The study lasted 5 months. The main outcome was the overall recovery from complaints after one-month intervention, using “the Nordic style questionnaire” and eyestrain questionnaire [2Descatha A., et al. Validity of Nordic-style questionnaires in the surveillance of upper-limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders Scand J Work Environ Health 2007 ;  33 (1) : 58-65 [cross-ref]

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96 workers included in the intervention group, 79 in the control group. The most painful areas (VAS ≥2) are: neck (40%), upper back (18.8%), shoulders (15.7%). Concerning, the most painful anatomical area, the Nordic score significantly decreases after one month utilization in the intervention group (P=0,038) versus control group (P=0.59). After one-month utilization, in the intervention group, the painful area and visual discomfort symptoms number decrease (P=0.02). After one month, the adhesion of the system is satisfactory (almost 60% of employees).

In the short-term, the active breaks use in the musculoskeletal disorders and eyestrain treatment is effective using the software program. It is a numerical simple tool to use, which allows each worker to interact on areas of their choice by offering personalized exercises easily achievable on workplace.