Symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders in ophthalmologists.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

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.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Dhimitri, KC; McGwin, G; McNeal, SF; Lee, P; Morse, PA; Patterson, M; Wertz, FD; Marx, JL

Published Date

  • January 2005

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 139 / 1

Start / End Page

  • 179 - 181

PubMed ID

  • 15652844

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0002-9394

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/j.ajo.2004.06.091

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States