Postural Ergonomic Risk Assessment and Work-related Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Surgeons

Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) develop mainly because of poor work ergonomics. Surgeons are much prone to develop the musculoskeletal symptoms due to the nature of their precise work linked with prolong postures.

Objectives: To assess the level of postural ergonomic risk exposure and frequency of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among Surgeons.

Methods: This was an observational, descriptive cross-sectional survey conducted among surgeons (n=100) working in hospitals of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. Convenient sampling technique was used. Structured survey questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and work details of surgeons. Pre-validated tools such as Quick Exposure Check (QEC) and Body Mapping Tool were also used. SPSS version 21 was used for data entry and analysis.

Results: More than half of the surgeons’ working posture exposed them to high 49(49%) and very high ergonomic risk 15(15%). The mean of Quick Exposure Check score was 55.71±14. Majority of the surgeons 64(64%) requires urgent and immediate change of their work posture. A significant difference of QEC score (p= 0.001) between males and females was found. Statistically significant difference (p=0.002) of QEC score among Surgeons. 64(64%) of the participants have reported work-related body pain in lower back 35(35%), neck 29(29%), shoulder 16(16%), wrist 15(15%), ankle 15(15%), upper back 14(14%), hip pain 9(9%), knee 9(9%) and elbows 5(5%).

Conclusion: It is concluded that work- related posture puts surgeons at higher ergonomic risk. Most of them were experiencing work-related musculoskeletal pain in some of their body regions.