Effectiveness of Brain Gym Exercise in Reducing Musculoskeletal Disorders in Printing Operators at PT X Surakarta

Lusi Ismayenti; Nailal Muna; Ayu Prima Kartika

doi:10.52022/jikm.v18i4.877

Lusi Ismayenti Occupational Health and Safety Department, Vocational School, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Central Java, Postal Code 57126, IndonesiaUniversity
Nailal Muna Occupational Health and Safety Department, Vocational School, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Central Java, Postal Code 57126, Indonesia
Ayu Prima Kartika Occupational Health and Safety Department, Vocational School, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Central Java, Postal Code 57126, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.52022/jikm.v18i4.877

Keywords: Brain Gym, Exercise, Musculoskeletal disorders, Printing operators

Abstract

Background: The printing production process requires operators to operate large machines that involve repeatedly going up and down stairs, as well as standing for long periods, particularly during the setup process. Operators also perform repetitive activities, such as inspecting print quality and moving printed materials to pallets. These activities increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Stretching can help reduce MSD symptoms.

Method: This study aimed to assess the effect of Brain Gym® exercises on reducing MSDs among printing operators at PT X, Surakarta. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. Participants were divided into an experimental group that received the exercise intervention and a control group that received no intervention. Data were collected using the Nordic Body Map (NBM) questionnaire before and after the intervention. The intervention involved Brain Gym® exercises lasting five minutes per session, conducted three times per week for two weeks. The data were analyzed using the marginal homogeneity test and Pearson's chi-square test.

Results: The marginal homogeneity test results showed a p-value of 0.003 (p < 0.05) in the experimental group, while the control group showed a p-value of 0.157 (p ≥ 0.05). Pearson's chi-square test results showed that Brain Gym® exercises reduced MSD symptoms among printing operators, with a p-value of 0.002 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Brain Gym® exercises were found to be effective in reducing MSD symptoms among printing operators. This intervention can be recommended as part of a proactive and preventive occupational health strategy.