Abstract
Background Work-related lower back pain (WrLBP) is a global health issue and a rising concern in the State of Kuwait. The prevalence and the risk factors of WrLBP among radiographers are not well documented. Objective The purpose of the study was to determine the one-year prevalence, characteristics, impact, and physical risk factors of WrLBP among radiographers in the State of Kuwait. Methods A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 200 radiographers. The questionnaire collected data on demographics, physical risk factors, and the occurrence of WrLBP in the previous 12 months. Descriptive statistics, frequency calculations, and chi-square analyses were performed. Results One hundred forty-six radiographers completed and returned the questionnaires with a response rate of 73% (146/200). The one-year prevalence of WrLBP was 16%. The prevalence of WrLBP was not significantly associated with the participants' demographics. Although WrLBP was significantly associated with work demands, the overall impact of WrLBP on work duties was minimal. Conclusions The occurrence of WrLBP among radiographers in Kuwait was low, particularly when compared to healthcare providers involved in more patient handling and direct contact. However, various physical risk factors were identified. Further research is needed to investigate the effect of a treatment and prevention program on the prevalence of WrLBP.
Highlights
Healthcare professionals are often at risk of sustaining workrelated musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) during the performance of work duties. e National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health [1] has defined WMSD as “an injury of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, cartilage, bones, or blood vessels in the arms, legs, head, neck, or back that is caused or aggravated by work tasks such as lifting, pushing, and pulling
Work-related lower back pain (WrLBP) was significantly associated with work demands but not with demographics, work settings, exercise habits, or co-worker or supervisor support. ird, work duties were not affected by WrLBP
We found no significant association between age and the prevalence of WrLBP. is finding is in agreement with the results reported by Wright and Witt [5] but differs from those reported by Lorusso et al [7]
Summary
Healthcare professionals are often at risk of sustaining workrelated musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) during the performance of work duties. Several studies have investigated the prevalence of workrelated lower back pain (WrLBP) among radiographers worldwide [5,6,7,8]. Few studies have investigated the prevalence of WrLBP among healthcare professionals in the State of Kuwait [3, 9,10,11]. E lifetime prevalence was 25.7%, and transferring and lifting patients were identified as predisposing physical risk factors in the development of WrLBP. E purpose of the study was to determine the one-year prevalence, characteristics, impact, and physical risk factors of WrLBP among radiographers in the State of Kuwait.
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