Effect of obesity on upper torso musculoskeletal pain and shoulder range of motion in women

We investigated the effects of obesity on musculoskeletal pain at various regions of the upper torso, and shoulder range of motion (RoM) in community-based women. Obese women displayed increased musculoskeletal pain in the shoulders and arms, as well decreased shoulder RoM compared to their leaner counterparts. The need for obese women to bear greater loads through their upper limbs during activities such as rising from a seated position may contribute to this finding.