Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Healthcare Workers: An Observational Study.

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a leading cause of occupational morbidity among healthcare professionals globally. In India, the high patient load, resource constraints, and demanding work conditions expose doctors and nurses to significant ergonomic risks.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with WMSDs among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a tertiary care setting in South India.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 HCWs, including doctors and nurses, using a stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and a structured work profile assessment. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the prevalence and identify risk factors.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of WMSDs was 82.1%, with the lower back (68.3%), neck (54.8%), and shoulders (48.6%) being the most commonly affected regions. Nurses reported significantly higher prevalence compared to doctors (88.4% vs. 73.9%, P < 0.01). Prolonged standing, repetitive movements, and poor ergonomics were identified as major risk factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that work experience > 10 years (AOR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.21-5.83) and lack of ergonomic training (AOR = 3.12; 95% CI: 1.48-6.58) were independently associated with WMSDs.

CONCLUSION

WMSDs are alarmingly prevalent among HCWs in India, especially among nurses. There is an urgent need for workplace ergonomic interventions, regular training, and policy-level initiatives to safeguard the occupational health of frontline medical staff.