Musculoskeletal Pain Patterns among Sudanese Surgeons: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal pain and discomfort are common causes that influence most surgeons' performance and lifestyle. The purpose of this study is to investigate where surgeons experience the most musculoskeletal discomfort and suffering compared to non-surgical specialty doctors. Methodology: This descriptive case-control study included 156 participants from El Obeid, a city in Sudan's Northern Kordofan state. We randomly selected the volunteers between May and June 2024, irrespective of their age or gender. Results: This study included 156 doctors from diverse disciplines aged 27 to 70, with a mean age of 37. Male-to-female ratio: 2:1. Of the 156 participants, 104 (67%) were males and 52 (33%) were females. The bulk of participants were 31–35 (33%), 36–40 (30%), and under 30 (13%). Neck pain was experienced by 38% of participants, including 44% of surgeons and 25% of non-surgical specialists. Surgeons had a greater neck pain rate (RR = 0.420, 95% CI = 0.201–0.879). About 20% of participants, including 24% of surgeons and 13% of non-surgical specialists, reported shoulder pain. The study found a relative risk (RR) of 0.492 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.197–1.227 between shoulder pain and surgery. Additionally, 57% of participants—66% surgeons and 38% other specialties—reported lower back pain. With an RR of 0.317 (95% CI 0.159–0.633), surgeons are more likely to experience lower back pain. Foot discomfort affected 7% of participants, 9% of cases, and 4% of controls. Cases increased foot pain risk by 0.422 (95% CI 0.088–2.029). Conclusion: Surgeons in various specializations in Sudan, as well as doctors in non-surgical specialties, have a significant prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort. The most often reported areas of pain were the lumbar region, cervical region, shoulder, and lower extremities.