Investigating the Factors Affecting Physical Activity Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior among Teachers with Musculoskeletal Disorder in District 2 of Tehran, 2023

Maleki, Zahra; Motalebi Ghayen, Masoud; Vasoughi, Shahram; Rasouli, Mahboobeh

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Investigating the Factors Affecting Physical Activity Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior among Teachers with Musculoskeletal Disorder in District 2 of Tehran, 2023

Zahra Maleki

, Masoud Motalebi Ghayen ^*

, Shahram Vasoughi

, Mahboobeh Rasouli

Abstract: (368 Views)

Background and Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common problems among teachers and negatively affect their quality of life. Physical activity plays a significant role in the prevention and management of these disorders. This study, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), examines the factors influencing physical activity among teachers with MSDs in District 2 of Tehran in 2023.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted, including 332 employed teachers attending the Teachers’ Clinic in 2023. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through a combination of paper-based and electronic questionnaires (Porsline system). The instruments included a demographic information form, the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF), a TPB-based questionnaire, and the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.

Results: A significant difference between teachers with and without MSDs was observed only in the TPB construct of attitude toward physical activity, while other constructs and physical activity levels showed no significant difference. Regression analysis indicated that TPB could predict physical activity behavior, although individual constructs alone were not strong predictors. Additionally, an inverse significant relationship was found between teachers’ teaching level and their physical activity. Positive significant correlations were also observed between attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control with behavioral intention.

Conclusion: Attitude plays a pivotal role in shaping physical activity behavior, and interventions targeting this construct may facilitate the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders among teachers.

Open Access Policy: This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Keywords: Physical Activity, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Teachers, Theory of Planned Behavior

Type of Study: Research | Subject: Health Education & Health Promotion
Received: 2025/06/23 | Accepted: 2025/11/23

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