Prevalence Of Fibromyalagia Among Tailors

Abstract

Background:.The symptoms of fibromyalgia, a complicated chronic pain condition, include non-restorative   sleep, exhaustion, cognitive impairment, and widespread musculoskeletal pain. Psychosocial stressors, neuroendocrine abnormalities, and cerebral sensitization are thought to be important contributions, although the etiology is still complex and poorly understood. Particularly in manual labor occupations, occupational repetitive strain, inadequate ergonomics, and prolonged physical demands are becoming significant risk factors. Because of the physical and mental strains associated with their job, tailors who work long hours sitting down, performing repeated upper limb movements, and paying close attention may be more susceptible to fibromyalgia.

Objective:This study's main goal was to determine how common and severe fibromyalgia is among tailors. Assessing physical and ergonomic risk factors for fibromyalgia and comprehending how chronic pain affects this population's quality of life were secondary goals.

Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 40 tailors in Karad, India. Participants were selected via random sampling. Inclusion criteria included a minimum of one year of tailoring experience and working at least 20 hours per week. Fibromyalgia was assessed using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Symptom Severity Scale (SS), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Ethical clearance was obtained (Ref: 423/2024-2025).

Results:Out of 40 tailors, 85% met the diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia. Common symptoms included widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and non-restorative sleep. Higher symptom severity was associated with long working hours, poor ergonomics, and over 10 years of tailoring experience. Female tailors reported more intense symptoms than males.

Conclusion: Because of poor ergonomic circumstances, rigid posture, and repetitive strain, fibromyalgia is very common among tailors. These results demonstrate the critical need for early screening, occupational health education, and ergonomic treatments in high-risk occupations like tailoring.