Work-related Musculoskeletal Pain in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Professionals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31636/pmjua.v10i1-2.5Keywords:
work-related, musculoskeletal pain, occupational injury, obstetricians, gynaecologists, ergonomics, surgeryAbstract
Background: Surgical fields like Obstetrics and Gynaecology are highly demanding, both physically and mentally. This often leads to acute and chronic muscular strain which can impede productivity and patient care. The present study aims to study the burden of musculoskeletal pain among practicing obstetricians and gynaecologic surgeons, identify associated risk factors and the impact on their physical health.
Materials & Methods: A web-based questionnaire was used to collect data from obstetrician and gynaecologists for studying musculoskeletal pain. Descriptive analysis was done of the risk factors and relation with surgical practice patterns and the effect on lifestyle.
Results: The overall prevalence of Musculoskeletal pain/discomfort was 61.3 %. The most common region effected was the lower back (44.7 %) followed by the neck (36.8 %). Majority gave a pain score of 5–7 out of 10. The main event leading to the initial episode of pain was cited as performing consecutive multiple surgeries/deliveries (64.8 %). 66 % of the participants had more than 7 days of their daily living activities affected significantly. Three-fourth of the doctors reported relief of pain by rest. 81 % reported a recurrence of pain after complete cure owing to return to their previous level of activities.
Conclusion: The present study highlights that the majority of the musculoskeletal pain burden was preventable by early recognition and rest. It brings to focus the need to address the importance of ergonomics for surgeons, obstetricians and gynaecologists, in particular. Establishing a protocol to identify at-risk surgeons and formulate a timely intervention and rehabilitation plan is essential to enhance performance
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
