Symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders in ophthalmologists.
OBJECTIVE: To describe the presence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the neck, low back, and upper extremity among ophthalmologists. DESIGN: Survey. METHODS: Mail survey using a pretested instrument to 2,529 ophthalmologists in the Northeastern United States; 697 ophthalmologists (28%) returned a completed survey. RESULTS: Self-reported prevalence of neck, upper body, or lower back symptoms in the prior month was 51.8%. Low back pain was present in 39% of respondents, followed by upper extremity symptoms (32.9%) and neck pain (32.6%). Approximately 15% of ophthalmologists were slightly to moderately limited in their work as a result of these symptoms. CONCLUSION: MSD symptoms appear to be common among ophthalmologists. With a relatively low response rate, however, it is plausible that asymptomatic subjects represent a large percentage of the nonrespondents. Additional investigation is warranted to evaluate ergonomic risk factor exposure and establish injury prevention guidelines.
Duke Scholars
Altmetric Attention Stats
Dimensions Citation Stats
Published In
DOI
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Self Disclosure
- Prevalence
- Ophthalmology & Optometry
- Ophthalmology
- Occupational Diseases
- New England
- Neck Pain
- Musculoskeletal Diseases
- Middle Aged
- Male
Citation
Published In
DOI
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Self Disclosure
- Prevalence
- Ophthalmology & Optometry
- Ophthalmology
- Occupational Diseases
- New England
- Neck Pain
- Musculoskeletal Diseases
- Middle Aged
- Male