Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare staff in the hospitals of Taif, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and objectives

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major problem for healthcare professionals and workplaces. Thus, this study assessed the prevalence of WMSDs among healthcare professionals and explored their relationship with the job risk factors (JRFs).

Methods

A total of 496 healthcare professionals at hospitals in Taif city participated in this cross-sectional study. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to identify the occurrence of musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) and Job Factors Questionnaire determined whether they were work-related.

Results

The WMSDs prevalence in the last 12 months was 78.23 % with lower back pain was the most prevalent MSC (45.97 %). The prevalent MSCs prevented normal activity was wrists/hands (70.37 %), led to visiting a physician was elbow (50.00 %), and occurred during the last 7 days was hips/thighs (80.00 %). Above-average body mass index (BMI) and working more than 8 h/day were more likely to develop WMSDs [Odds ratio (OR): 2.83, 5.50 respectively]. The frequently reported JRFs were working in the same position for long periods [40.32 %, OR: 9.09], continuing to work when injured or hurt [38.71 %, OR: 5.72] and bending or twisting back [35.08 %, OR: 4.91].

Conclusion

About four-fifths of the healthcare professionals showed WMSDs. Pain in lower back, neck and upper back were the most reported MSCs. BMI and extended work hours were the major predictors for WMSDs. Working in the same position for long periods was the most frequently reported JRF related to WMSDs. Healthcare professionals should learn more about the JRFs of MSDs in designing preventive strategies to reduce their burdens.