Alunos canhotos de odontologia da cidade de Uberlândia: perfil, ergonomia e dores osteomusculares / Left-handed dentistry students in the city of Uberlândia: profile, ergonomics and muscular pain

Os dentistas são um grupo de alto risco para o desenvolvimento de doenças de desordens musculoesqueléticas e tendo em vista que o sistema de produção industrial desenvolve produtos que atendem a maioria da população destra, os estudantes canhotos precisam se adequar a uma formação acadêmica, usando instrumentais, cadeiras odontológicas eoutros objetos projetados para destros. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo a coletade informações sobre os canhotos nos cursos de Odontologia da cidade de Uberlândia ­Minas Gerais. Foram incluídos todos os alunos canhotos matriculados no ano de 2022 e que estavam cursando ou já cursaram disciplinas com atividades laboratoriais ou clínicas. Questionários foram aplicados para identificação do perfil, das dificuldades, da ergonomia e das dores osteomusculares dos alunos canhotos em suas atividades. Os dados foram em seguida tabulados e passaram por análise estatística. Da quantidade total de alunos das três instituições (n=1.578), foram entrevistados 45 (2,8%) alunos canhotos, sendo a maioria feminina (80%), na qual identificou-se um posicionamento inadequado do operador canhoto quando comparado ao preconizado pela ISO-FDI, além da limitação de movimento na presença de auxiliar (82,2%). Os locais com maior frequência de dor/desconforto foram: pescoço (79%), costas superior esquerda (63%) e inferior esquerda (61%) e punhos/ mãos esquerda (56%). A intensidade da dor variou entre alguma, moderada e bastante. O impedimento de realizar atividades diárias foi relatado por 17% dos alunos (n=7) e destes somente 1 buscou atendimento médico. Não houve diferença estatística na comparação entre instituição pública e privada. Diante dos resultados, concluiu-se que os canhotos representam minoria dos alunos de Odontologia e apresentam várias regiões de dor/ desconforto devido às adaptações e posturas erradas durante os atendimentos. Apesar de grande parte apresentar dor, poucos tiveram impedimento de atividades rotineiras ou procuraram ajuda médica(AU)

Dentists are a high risk group for the development of musculoskeletal disorders and considering that the industrial production system develops products that serve the majority of the right-handed population, lefthanded students need to adapt to an academic training, using instruments, dental chairs and other objects designed for right-handers. This study aimed to collect information about left-handers in Dentistry courses in the city of Uberlândia - Minas Gerais. All left- handed students enrolled in the year 2022 and who were taking or had taken courses with laboratory or clinical activities were included. Questionnaires were applied to identify the profile, difficulties, ergonomics and musculoskeletal pain of left-handed students in their activities. The data were tabulated and then undergo statistical analysis. Of the total number of students from the three institutions (n=1,578), 45 (2.8%) left-handed students were interviewed, the majority being female (80%), in which an inadequate positioning of the left-handed operator was identified when compared to the recommended one by ISO-FDI, in addition to limitation of movement in the presence of an assistant (82.2%). The places with the highest frequency of pain/discomfort were: neck (79%), upper left back (63%) and lower left back (61%) and left wrists/hands (56%). The intensity of pain varied between some, moderate and a lot. The impediment to carrying out daily activities was reported by 17% of the students (n=7) and of these, only 1 sought medical attention. There was no statistical difference when comparing public and private institutions. In view of the results, it was concluded that left-handers represent a minority of dentistry students and have several regions of pain/discomfort due to adaptations and wrong postures during consultations. Although most of them had pain, few were prevented from performing routine activities or sought medical help(AU)

Promoting safety of underground machinery operators through participatory ergonomics and fuzzy model analysis to foster sustainable mining practices.

One of the most vital parameters to achieve sustainability in any field is encompassing the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) of the workers. In mining industry where heavy earth moving machineries are largely employed, ergonomic hazards turn out to be significant OHS hazards causing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in the operators. Nevertheless, the Indian mining industry lacks a comprehensive technique of OHS risk assessment, especially for ergonomic hazards that cause MSDs. This research appraises ergonomic hazards and develops Fuzzy Musculoskeletal-disorders Index (FMI) model to evaluate ergonomic-related MSDs. Work process and work tool ergonomic risk factors were identified through literature review and directives recommended by experts. Work posture was evaluated using RULA. The data-collecting approach was implemented using participatory ergonomic and design science principles. The FMI results show average MSDs score of 3.69, indicating high to extremely high risk. Surface plots show that combined work tool and work process was the most sensitive factors to MSDs risk compared to other two combinations. A two-sample t-test validated the FMI. The findings should help safety experts and managers develop effective OHS management plans and programmes for the sustainability of Indian mining industry.

OpenHands: An Open-Source Statistical Shape Model of the Finger Bones.

This paper presents statistical shape models of the four fingers of the hand, with an emphasis on anatomic analysis of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints. A multi-body statistical shape modelling pipeline was implemented on an exemplar training dataset of computed tomography (CT) scans of 10 right hands (5F:5M, 27-37 years, free from disease or injury) imaged at 0.3 mm resolution, segmented, meshed and aligned. Model generated included pose neutralisation to remove joint angle variation during imaging. Repositioning was successful; no joint flexion variation was observed in the resulting model. The first principal component (PC) of morphological variation represented phalanx size in all fingers. Subsequent PCs showed variation in position along the palmar-dorsal axis, and bone breadth: length ratio. Finally, the models were interrogated to provide gross measures of bone lengths and joint spaces. These models have been published for open use to support wider community efforts in hand biomechanical analysis, providing bony anatomy descriptions whilst preserving the security of the underlying imaging data and privacy of the participants. The model describes a small, homogeneous population, and assumptions cannot be made about how it represents individuals outside the training dataset. However, it supplements anthropometric datasets with additional shape information, and may be useful for investigating factors such as joint morphology and design of hand-interfacing devices and products. The model has been shared as an open-source repository ( https://github.com/abel-research/OpenHands ), and we encourage the community to use and contribute to it.

Transport and mining machinery cabins' ergonomic evaluation as a path to its redesign.

Transport and mining machinery cabins are still not well adapted to their users, while checklists for their evaluation are not common in the literature. This article proposes a new checklist for ergonomic evaluation and tests its universality empirically with a sample of 96 transport and mining machine operators. The objective of the article is two-fold. First, the article checks whether there are anthropometric dimension differences between different machines' operators. Second, statistical significance testing regarding items in the proposed checklist is performed to check its universality. Significant differences have not been found between anthropometric dimensions of transport and mining machine operators. Group comparisons prove that mining machines have better ergonomics characteristics of the chair, manual controls and vision field. The recommendation for crane designers is to examine mining machines solutions and analyze the possibility of adapting these solutions, due to anthropometric fit. Wide usage of the checklist is recommended.

It is the habit not the handle that affects tooth brushing - a randomised counterbalanced cross over study with young and healthy adults.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of the toothbrush handle on video-observed toothbrushing behaviour and toothbrushing effectiveness. METHODS: This is a randomized counterbalanced cross-over study. N = 50 university students and employees brushed their teeth at two occasions, one week apart, using either a commercial ergonomically designed manual toothbrush (MT) or Brushalyze V1 (BV1), a manual toothbrush with a thick cylindrical handle without any specific ergonomic features. Brushing behaviour was video-analysed. Plaque was assessed at the second occasion immediately after brushing. Participants also rated their self-perceived oral cleanliness and directly compared the two brushes regarding their handling and compared them to the brushed they used at home. RESULTS: The study participants found the BV1 significantly more cumbersome than the M1 or their brush at home. (p < 0.05). However, correlation analyses revealed a strong consistency of brushing behavior with the two brushes (0.71 < r < 0.91). Means differed only slightly (all d < 0.36). These differences became statistically significant only for the brushing time at inner surfaces (d = 0.31 p = 0.03) and horizontal movements at inner surfaces (d = 0.35, p = 0.02). Plaque levels at the gingival margins did not differ while slightly more plaque persisted at the more coronal aspects of the crown after brushing with BV1 (d = 0.592; p 0.042). DISCUSSION: The results of the study indicate that the brushing handle does not play a major role in brushing behavior or brushing effectiveness.

Firefighters' muscle activity change during firefighting training program.

BACKGROUND: Research on muscle activity to reduce injuries during firefighting training has getting increasing attention. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the activity changes in nine muscles of firefighters during the seven firefighting training programs, and to analyze the influence of different firefighting training programs on muscle activity. METHODS: Ten healthy male firefighters were recruited to measure the field surface electromyographic activities (including the percentage of Maximum Voluntary Contraction electromyography (% MVC) and the integrated electromyography value (iEMG)) during all the firefighting training programs. RESULTS: The results showed that the electromyographic activity of gastrocnemius (GA) was stronger in climbing the hooked ladder and climbing the six-meter long ladder training programs. Arms, shoulders, and lower limb muscles were more activated, myoelectric activities were more intense, and fatigue in these areas was more likely to occur during climbing five-story building with loads. Compared with other muscles, erector spine (ES) had a higher degree of activation during different postures of water shooting. The Borg scale scores of shoulders, trunk, thighs and calves were also higher. CONCLUSION: After completing all training programs, GA, tibialis anterior (TA), trapezius (TR), and ES were strongly activated, and all muscles had obvious force. The % MVC and iEMG analyses correspond well with the Borg Scale score. The results can provide certain reference for reducing the musculoskeletal injury of firefighters, carrying out scientific training and formulating effective injury prevention measures for them.

Effects of laptop screen height on neck and shoulder muscle fatigue and spine loading for office workers.

BACKGROUND: Due to the unfavourable neck-shoulder muscle loads caused by poor posture, the people who use the laptop for a long time may face the risk of neck and shoulder injuries. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study investigates the impact of the screen height on the muscle activation of head flexion, neck and shoulder, and the cervical spine torque to provide the favorite screen height for laptop user. METHODS: Twelve healthy young participants completed a15-minute task of the reading at the four different screen heights. sEMG signals of the splenius capitis (SC) and upper trapezius (UT) were measured and calculated the root mean square (RMS) and mean power frequency (MPF) to determine muscle fatigue. The different height of laptop users was simulated and the forces on the spine of users at different screen heights were analyzed by Jack. RESULTS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can effectively reduce head flexion and muscle activity of SC and UT, and has a positive effect on reducing fatigue of SC, but has no significant effect on UT. CONCLUSIONS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can delay the occurrence of SC muscle fatigue to a certain extent. The joint analysis of sEMG spectrum and amplitude reports that the screen heights of D15 and D45 have the highest and the lowest frequency of fatigue, respectively. At the same time, the moment of spineT1/T2 and spineL4/L5 decrease with the increase of screen height.

Health status and ergonomics education: A comparison between student nurses and first-year nursing staff.

AIMS: To (a) compare student nurses' health status and levels of ergonomics knowledge and awareness to those of first-year nursing staff and (b) investigate the association between nurses' ergonomic compliance and health status with their educational preparedness. DESIGN: This cohort study compared ergonomics awareness and knowledge, and health status of nurses when they were students and after their first-year working in medical facilities. METHODS: In total, 133 4th-year student nurses completed a survey; 45 of them completed a second survey after working 1 year in a medical facility. Their health status was compared over time using repeated-measures ANOVA. Correlation tests were used to analyse associations between ergonomics knowledge and awareness, health status, demographic variables and educational preparedness. RESULTS: Respondents in both surveys displayed weak knowledge of ergonomic principles significantly associated with increased pain intensity and educational preparedness. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION: Ergonomics training should be expanded during nursing studies and first-year training to prevent long-term health disorders.

Ergonomics appraisals in operating rooms.

This document presents the ergonomic assessments carried out by Spanish surgeons on the materials used within an operating room. With the objective of disseminating and raising awareness of the importance of ergonomics, this working group has compiled information from a previously conducted survey on musculoskeletal disorders associated with surgical work from the year 2022, obtaining feedback from 131 surgeons from 17 distinct specialties. A noteworthy 80.2 % of surveyed surgeons reported having experienced forced postures during surgery, and 96.9 % believe that their physical discomfort is a result of the posture adopted during operations. Such postures can result in the development of pathologies and may have a direct impact on work performance and even in extreme cases, it can lead to sick leave or early retirement. By providing their insights on electronic devices, surgical furniture, and instrumentation, surgeons can help identify areas for improvement in the practice of their profession.

The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors at 75: perspectives on contemporary challenges and future directions for Ergonomics and Human Factors.

As the UK's Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) celebrates its 75th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on our discipline's contribution, current state, and critical future endeavours. We present the perspectives of 18 EHF professionals who were asked to respond to five questions regarding the impact of EHF, contemporary challenges, and future directions. Co-authors were in agreement that EHF's impact has been only limited to date and that critical issues require resolution, such as increasing the number of suitably qualified practitioners, resolving the research-practice gap, and increasing awareness of EHF and its benefits. Frequently discussed future directions include advanced emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, the development of new EHF methods, and enhancing the quality and reach of education and training. The majority felt there will be a need for EHF in 75 years; however, many noted that our methods will need to adapt to meet new needs.Practitioner statement: This article provides the perspectives of 18 Ergonomics and Human Factors (EHF) professionals on the impact of EHF, contemporary challenges and critical future directions, and changes that are necessary to ensure EHF remains relevant in future. As such, it provides important guidance on future EHF research and practice.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Endoscopic Sinus and Skull Base Surgery: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery has led to significant improvements in patient outcomes, yet may have come at a cost to surgeons' musculoskeletal (MSK) health. We aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of work-related MSK disorders (WRMDs) in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeons; to investigate contributing factors for WRMD in this population; and to evaluate the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions on the severity or prevalence of WRMD in this population. DATA SOURCES: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to April 2, 2024. A bibliographic examination was performed for further papers. REVIEW METHODS: Inclusion criteria included original peer-reviewed papers with work-related MSK outcomes (prevalence, contributing factors, and interventions) relating to endoscopic sinus and/or skull base surgeons in any language. RESULTS: Of 25,772 unique citations, 37 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled lifetime, point, and 12-month prevalences of WRMD were 75.9% (95% confidence interval; I2, 67.2%-83.6%, I2 95.6%), 80.8% (77.0%-84.3%, I2 98.0%), and 82.0% (71.8%-90.3%, I2 60.96%) respectively. The neck, lumbar spine, and thoracic spine were the most commonly involved areas. One of 9 studies on contributing factors investigated discomfort as an outcome. The remainder focussed on surrogate outcomes (eg, posture, hand dysfunction). Two of the 13 intervention studies investigated pain or fatigue as an outcome. The remainder targeted posture, muscle activity, or workload. CONCLUSION: WRMDs are highly prevalent in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeons. Further studies focusing on the direct outcomes of WRMD such as pain are needed.

[The possibility of fulfilling the needs of senior individuals through the activation of waterfront areas using mobile architectural-urban elements]. / Mozliwosc realizacji potrzeb osób w wieku senioralnym poprzez aktywizacje terenów nadwodnych z wykorzystaniem mobilnych elementów architektoniczno-urbanistycznych.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this article is to attempt to answer the question of how to enhance the fulfillment of needs for senior citizens residing in riverside cities. To achieve this, an attempt was made to develop the principles of a cohesive system that enables the activation of waterfront areas located in urbanized regions, often affected by a deficit of green spaces. The concept presented in this article is based on a consistent focus on architectural and urban design solutions that provide opportunities for functional enrichment of underutilized riverside areas for recreational purposes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Based on literature studies, field research, and design analysis, this article demonstrates the possibility of taking a structural approach to implementing changes in the utilization of green spaces located by the water in contemporary cities. Using the results of the analysis, an original system called the mobile architectural-urban elements (mobilne elementy architektoniczno-urbanistyczne - MEAU) was developed to activate the untapped potential of waterfront areas to meet the specific needs of senior citizens. RESULTS: The research objective outlined in the introduction led to the development of a solution based on the utilization of floating architecture for the establishment of services and amenities that enable comfortable and diverse leisure activities for the elderly. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the described approach aligns with the multidimensional vision of improving the well-being of users, as defined by the European Commission in the New European Bauhaus (NEB) program. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis conducted in this article allows for preliminary confirmation of the hypothesis that the specific needs of senior citizens can be fulfilled through the activation of waterfront areas using MEAU located on the water. Such actions not only activate existing resources but also align with the guidelines of the NEB idea, providing a coherent and applicable model with significant implementation potential for most waterfront cities. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(3).

Ergonomic considerations for the modern radiology practice: An update.

The average post-pandemic modern radiology practice is experiencing an ever-increasing workload volume with overall relatively similar staffing levels, regardless of practice setting. This has resulted in an increased workload demand for the average diagnostic radiologist, which in many cases translates to longer working hours. It is now more important than ever to be cognizant of various work-related injuries, including repetitive-stress injuries and vision-related ailments as examples, in relation to the working conditions of the radiologist. This article will discuss commonly occurring conditions and ergonomic considerations that the radiologist can employ to reduce the risk of work-related injuries.

[Research progress on electromyographic methods for sustained low-intensity muscle fatigue detection].

Sustained low-intensity muscle fatigue (SULMF) refers to the phenomenon that skeletal muscle continues to contract at less than 10% of maximum voluntary contraction during work activities, resulting in decreased muscle contractile function, which is one of the main causes of occupational neck, shoulder, waist and back discomfort and pain symptoms. Although surface electromyography is a key physiological technique for assessing the efficiency of neuromuscular activity, its effectiveness in objectively detecting SULMF remains controversial. Therefore, this paper describes the neurophysiological mechanism and related hypotheses of SULMF, and reviews the research progress of electromyography detection indicators and detection methods of SULMF, which is of great significance for the early prevention and accurate detection of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

A new look at the occupational fatigue challenge in the future of ergonomics research.

BACKGROUND: Due to the negative effects of occupational fatigue on health, absenteeism, and economic cost it is essential to control and manage its risk factors effectively. OBJECTIVE: This study seeks to draw researchers' attention to the research requirements concerning occupational fatigue. METHODS: The study briefly explores the consequences of occupational fatigue and discusses tools for its assessment. It then addresses the challenge of integrating risk factors and identifying efficient interventions. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of addressing occupational fatigue related to new technologies. RESULTS: Wearable sensors, biomarkers in biological samples, and image processing are valuable tools for accurately assessing occupational fatigue. Artificial intelligence (AI) models can integrate multiple risk factors; while economic evaluations can help assess the effectiveness of control measures. Employers and researchers should be prepared to manage and monitor occupational fatigue resulting from interactions with new technologies. CONCLUSIONS: This commentary highlights the research gap in the field of occupational fatigue to better manage this phenomenon in today's evolving world.

Evaluation of a passive arm-support exoskeleton for surgical team members: Results from live surgeries.

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries adversely impact the health of surgical team members and their performance in the operating room (OR). Though ergonomic risks in surgery are well-recognized, mitigating these risks is especially difficult. In this study, we aimed to assess the impacts of an exoskeleton when used by OR team members during live surgeries. METHODS: A commercial passive arm-support exoskeleton was used. One surgical nurse, one attending surgeon, and five surgical trainees participated. Twenty-seven surgeries were completed, 12 with and 15 without the exoskeleton. Upper-body postures and muscle activation levels were measured during the surgeries using inertial measurement units and electromyography sensors, respectively. Postures, muscle activation levels, and self-report metrics were compared between the baseline and exoskeleton conditions using non-parametric tests. RESULTS: Using the exoskeleton significantly decreased the percentage of time in demanding postures (>45° shoulder elevation) for the right shoulder by 7% and decreased peak muscle activation of the left trapezius, right deltoid, and right lumbar erector spinae muscles, by 7%, 8%, and 12%, respectively. No differences were found in perceived effort, and overall scores on usability ranged from "OK" to "excellent." CONCLUSIONS: Arm-support exoskeletons have the potential to assist OR team members in reducing musculoskeletal pain and fatigue indicators. To further increase usability in the OR, however, better methods are needed to identify the surgical tasks for which an exoskeleton is effective.

Predictors of musculoskeletal disorders among special education teachers in Sabah, Malaysia.

Special education teachers encounter considerable occupational challenges, yet there is limited information concerning musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) within this group. Therefore, this study aimed to address this gap by determining the prevalence of MSD, investigating associated factors of MSD, and identifying predictors of MSD among special education teachers. A cross-sectional study was conducted among special education teachers in Kota Kinabalu and Penampang, Sabah. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and musculoskeletal fitness assessments. Chi-square tests and independent t-tests were utilized to determine factors associated with MSD, while multiple logistic regression was performed to develop a comprehensive predictive model for MSD, which was then validated and tested for model fitness. A total of 122 individuals participated in the study, yielding a response rate of 95 %. The findings revealed a high prevalence of MSD (77.9 %) among special education teachers, with the lower back, shoulder, neck, knee, upper back, and foot being the most affected regions. The multivariable regression model identified several predictors of MSD, including marital status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.78, 95 % confidence interval [CI] = 1.49-15.40), body fat percentage (aOR = 1.06, 95 % CI = 1.00-1.12), teaching in prolonged standing for few days a week (aOR = 3.20, 95 % CI = 0.99-10.29) or every day (aOR = 6.20, 95 % CI = 1.44-26.70), mindfulness (aOR = 0.47, 95 % CI = 0.22-0.98), and back extensor strength (aOR = 5.86, 95 % CI = 1.92-17.92). This study highlights the necessity of implementing interventions focusing on the ergonomic, psychological, and musculoskeletal fitness components to mitigate the prevalence of MSD and improve the overall well-being of special education teachers.

A cross-sectional study to assess the occupational health hazards among fisherwomen in a metropolitan city.

Context: Research on the working conditions and health hazards of fishing communities in developing countries is scarce. Aims: 1) To assess the occupational health hazards among women fish vendors. 2) To understand the morbidity profile in them. 3) To analyze various challenges faced by them at the workplace in this occupation. 4) To suggest various measures including ergonomic solutions that they can take to reduce these health hazards. Settings and Design: Community-based observational cross-sectional study. Methods and Material: Eight fish markets comprising women fish vendors working for more than one year (age > 30 years) in Mumbai were selected. A cluster sampling method was used. The sample size was 225. The period of the study was 2 years. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test. Results: The majority of study subjects had diabetes mellitus (24%) and were overweight (54.7%). Of all participants, 55.1% had musculoskeletal pain of which low back pain (69; 30.7%) was most common. There was a significant association between musculoskeletal pain status and mode of carrying boxes, χ2 (1) =56.35 as well as with duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =89.67, P < 0.001. Of all participants, 90.2% got injured of which the majority had incisional wounds (124; 61.1%). Of all participants, 55.1% suffered from skin infections of which the majority (28; 12.4%) had itching and redness of hands and legs. There was a significant association between skin infections and duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =140.53 as well as with the use of gloves (63.2% participants), χ2 (1) =20.395, P < 0.001. Conclusions: Various measures including ergonomic solutions that women fish vendors can take to reduce these health hazards need to be addressed.

Prevalence and Burden of Musculoskeletal Pain among Cardiac Sonographers in Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Cardiac sonographers are at a high risk for work-related musculoskeletal pain (WMSP), a major occupational health problem. With limited research on WMSP prevalence among this population in Saudi Arabia, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of WMSP in cardiac sonographers in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia compared to a control group of healthcare professionals. Methods: An electronic survey was administered to cardiac sonographers (study group) and other healthcare professionals (control group) exposed to different occupational hazards, including allied healthcare professionals, physicians, and nurses. Modified versions of the Nordic, QuickDASH, and QuickDASH work questionnaires were used. The χ2 test was performed for comparisons. Results: A total of 168 participants completed the survey (mean age: 31.6 ± 7.7 years). Among them, 127 (76.1%) were females, comprising 61 (36.3%) sonographers and 107 (63.7%) controls. Overall, WMSP was more common (82% versus 65%, p = 0.020) and severe (p = 0.041) in cardiac sonographers than in controls. The most affected body regions in cardiac sonographers were the shoulders (72.0% versus 29.0%), followed by the hands (56.0% versus 24.6%), compared to those of the control participants. Pain experienced by cardiac sonographers significantly interfered with social and work-related activities (p < 0.05 for all). A higher number of cardiac sonographers planned to change their profession than control participants (41% versus 15.2%; p < 0.0001) owing to pain. Conclusions: WMSP was more common and severe in cardiac sonographers than in control participants of other healthcare professions in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia and interfered significantly with their social and work-related activities and future employment plans. Therefore, preventive interventional studies are required in the future.