Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms, Excessive Daytime Sleepiness, and Fatigue in the Crewmembers of a U.S. Navy Ship.

OBJECTIVES: We assessed the prevalence of, and association among, musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms, reported sleep, daytime alertness, fatigue, and consumption of caffeinated beverages.

METHODS: Crewmembers of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier (N = 767) completed a survey pertaining to demographics, exercise frequency, sleep duration, caffeinated beverages consumption, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and MSK symptoms occurrence.

RESULTS: Participants reported 6.12 hours of sleep per day while at sea, 31.8% reported increased daytime sleepiness, whereas 9% reported elevated fatigue levels. The 12-month prevalence of MSK symptoms was 57.5%, and the 7-day prevalence was 44.4%. Approximately 20% reported that MSK symptoms prevented them from carrying out normal activities. The lower back (39.5%) and knees (33.6%) were the two body parts most frequently reported for MSK symptoms. Symptoms in lower back, knees, and ankles/feet had an increased impact on preventing crewmembers from carrying out daily activities. Symptomatic crewmembers were more likely to report elevated daytime sleepiness, increased fatigue level, shorter nighttime sleep duration, and consume more caffeinated beverages.

CONCLUSION: MSK symptoms were frequent and frequently prevented crewmembers from carrying out their daily activities. From an occupational health perspective, interventions to optimize sleep hygiene in the naval environment should also address the impact of MSK symptoms as a confounding factor.