The survey, led by chartered Healthy Schools physiotherapist Lorna Taylor in conjunction with Voice The Union, revealed that more than 80 per cent of the 705 respondents had experienced work-related back pain and disorders such as joint and repetitive strain injuries.
Around 215 of the respondents were pre-school staff, with 86 per cent claiming they had experienced back pain on a regular basis, 69 per cent neck pain and 57 per cent discomfort in their knees.
The activities they said caused the most discomfort were bending over low tables and sitting on children's chairs.
Lifting children, picking things up off the floor, and moving furniture and equipment were also highlighted as particular problems for pre-school staff working in shared premises.
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