Anthropometric Assessment of Lower Limb Dimensions among Van Drivers in Relation to Work Pattern and Load Bearing

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Occupational workload affects health and performance, and anthropometry helps tailor ergonomic interventions to reduce musculoskeletal risk. Drivers face long hours, static postures, and high physical demands, often linked to musculoskeletal complaints, yet few studies examine how workload relates to lower limb dimensions. In Bangladesh, data on driver anthropometry are limited. This study explores the association between work exposure and lower limb measures among van drivers in Dhaka to inform ergonomic design and occupational health strategies. Methods & Materials: A cross-sectional study of 50 male van pullers in Dhaka (25–55 years, ≥5 years’ experience) measured demographics, workload, and lower limb dimensions following ISAK guidelines. Data were analyzed descriptively, and Pearson correlation assessed associations between workload and limb measurements (p<0.05, SPSS v27). Results: Among 50 male van pullers (mean age 39.0 ± 6.5 years; mean BMI 21.9 ± 2.7 kg/m²), lower limb measurements showed moderate variability (lateral tibial condyle to floor 44.8 ± 3.0 cm, total limb length 84.1 ± 5.5 cm, knee 30.7 cm, calf 32.3 cm, ankle 17.6 cm). Participants worked long hours (11.9 ± 2.4/day, ~7 days/week, 11.6 ± 1.5 months/year), but correlations between daily working hours and lower limb dimensions were weak and non-significant (r = 0.08–0.14, p > 0.05). Conclusion: Lower limb dimensions of Dhaka van pullers show moderate variability and appear largely unaffected by prolonged occupational workload.