Sonographers and Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs): A systematic review of the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences

Abstract

Introduction: Work related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) remains a significant issue among sonographers. Despite advancements in the ultrasound machine's technology and increased awareness in ergonomic workplace technique, sonographers continue to perform their work in pain associated with WRMSDs. Throughout their careers, sonographers are exposed to different adverse factors at their workplace. The injuries resulted in decreased productivity, increased medical expenses, financial loss in form of sick leave and staff replacement. It is necessary to evaluate the burden of WRMSDs and the risk factors related to sonographers; in order to understand the mechanism of its occurrence. This will be useful in making informed decision that will prevent and/or reduce the occurrence of WRMSDs among this population. Methodology: A systematic review of the literature to include all relevant articles on WRMSDs among sonographers was carried out. The Elsevier, Medline, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched using the review's developed search terms. The included studies were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The qualities of the included studies were critically appraised to ensure that only surveys which met the criteria were included. Results: 25 articles were included in the review. The prevalence rate of WRMSDs among sonographers ranged globally from 53% to 99.3%. The shoulder, neck, wrist, and back regions are the most affected body areas. The predisposing factors include; awkward working posture, poor ergonomics, suboptimal psychosocial factors, adverse scanning-related activities, and individual factors such as female gender, lack of physical activities, and high BMI. The injured sonographers suffer significantly ranging from more than 50% seeking medical treatment to the extent of about 4% ending their careers prematurely. Conclusion: The results of this review reported a continuous rise in the prevalence of WRMSDs among sonographers. The importance of a safe work environment cannot be over-emphasized as the cost of creating an ergonomically optimal workstation is lower than the cost associated with managing an injured sonographer. The identified risk factors would help in making informed choices in developing appropriate individualized ergonomic solutions by the sonographers and the employers.