Musculoskeletal disorders and its associated factors amongst healthcare professionals

ABSTRACT

Work related musculoskeletal disorders [WMSDs] are one of the most common factors that not only decrease the quality of life but also compromise productivity of health care personnel. This cross sectional study was aimed at looking into the WMSDs affecting physicians, nurses and dentists. A study of two months duration was initiated at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi. Subjects included were divided into three groups medical doctors, dental professionals and nurses. A questionnaire was designed for collection of data from the respondents. The data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 14. Strenuous work position was reported by 38.9% participants and standing work posture 45.6% and only 22.2% reported interchanging their work posture. The most commonly reported WMSDs was lower back pain among all groups. The prevention and reduction of WMSDs among doctors, nurses and dentists should include their education in ergonomics and awareness regarding the importance of work-related risk factors