Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Bio-Mechanical Analysis of Postural Hazards of Standard and Sports Motorbike Riders

Motorbike riding is a physically exhilarating activity that can also impose significant stress on the musculoskeletal system, leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) which may increase the incidence of road traffic accidents. This study was aimed at finding out the prevalence of MSDs and the bio-mechanical analysis of postural hazards of standard motorbike and sports motorbike riders. A total of 95 male volunteers (age: 20–25 years) were included in this study; 15 were excluded, and the remaining 80 volunteers were divided into: (1) standard motorbike riders (n = 40) and (2) sports motorbike riders (n = 40). Morphological, physical fitness, physiological variables, prevalence and risk of MSDs, body posture, joint and spinal angles and centre of gravity (CG) were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed. A higher prevalence and risk of MSDs were observed among sports motorbike riders than standard motorbike riders. Sports motorbike riders had greater (p < 0.05) postural alignment (head, shoulder, pelvic and knees), joint angles (elbow and wrist); and lower (p < 0.05) postural alignment (whole body and feet), joint angles (hip, knee and ankle), spinal angles (cervical and lumber), whole body CG (%) than the standard motorbike riders. No significant difference was noted in morphological, physical fitness and physiological variables among the groups. Forward-leaning posture in sports motorbike riders may affect the joint angles and spinal angles, which can increase the risk of MSDs. An ergonomic intervention is needed to avoid MSDs, ensure safety and comfort of riders and design of motorbikes.