Work related musculoskeletal disorders amongst therapists in physically demanding roles: qualitative analysis of risk factors and strategies for prevention

Leanne Passier,Steven Mcphail

doi:10.1186/1471-2474-12-24

Abstract

BackgroundPhysiotherapy and occupational therapy are two professions at high risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). This investigation aimed to identify risk factors for WRMD as perceived by the health professionals working in these roles (Aim 1), as well as current and future strategies they perceive will allow them to continue to work in physically demanding clinical roles (Aim 2).MethodsA two phase exploratory investigation was undertaken. The first phase included a survey administered via a web based platform with qualitative open response items. The second phase involved four focus group sessions which explored topics obtained from the survey. Thematic analysis of qualitative data from the survey and focus groups was undertaken.ResultsOverall 112 (34.3%) of invited health professionals completed the survey; 66 (58.9%) were physiotherapists and 46 (41.1%) were occupational therapists. Twenty-four health professionals participated in one of four focus groups. The risk factors most frequently perceived by health professionals included: work postures and movements, lifting or carrying, patient related factors and repetitive tasks. The six primary themes for strategies to allow therapists to continue to work in physically demanding clinical roles included: organisational strategies, workload or work allocation, work practices, work environment and equipment, physical condition and capacity, and education and training.ConclusionsRisk factors as well as current and potential strategies for reducing WRMD amongst these health professionals working in clinically demanding roles have been identified and discussed. Further investigation regarding the relative effectiveness of these strategies is warranted.

Highlights

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are two professions at high risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD)
Previous reports regarding the incidence of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) indicate that physiotherapy and occupational therapy are two professions that are at high risk [5,11,14,16]
Risk Factors The risk factors most frequently perceived by health professionals as likely to limit their capacity to continue

Summary

Introduction

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are two professions at high risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). Previous reports regarding the incidence of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) indicate that physiotherapy ( known as physical therapy) and occupational therapy are two professions that are at high risk [5,11,14,16]. A recent report provided the first preliminary empirical evidence specific to OT, in which a convenience sample reported a career incidence of 80% and twelve month incidence of 63% for WRMD [11] These conditions may be associated with considerable personal and financial cost to individuals and have significant impact on the career path and retention of health professionals [3,5,11]

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion