Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Surgeons at a Tertiary Care Center: a Survey Based Study

INTRODUCTION: Musculoskeletal (MSK) manifestations represent a common work-related physical complication that affect surgeons and impacts their life and the healthcare service negatively. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of work related MSK manifestations among surgeons in a tertiary care hospital and to identify the possible associated risk factors. METHODS: A Web-based self-administered cross-sectional survey was conducted. This study targeted all surgeons regardless of their nationalities, ages, genders, and marital statuses. The questionnaire assessed the participants’ demographic data as well as musculoskeletal manifestations. RESULTS: Most respondents (80%) suffered from MSK manifestations that were related to performing surgeries. Back and neck areas represented the most affected body parts (71.1% and 59.8%, respectively). A significantly higher percentage of those with musculoskeletal manifestations practiced for 5-10 years (28.9%) (p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: MSK pain is common among Saudi surgeons in different specialties. More attention should be directed to improving the physical environments in which the surgeons are operating. Moreover, surgeons should be educated about the recommended ergonomic positions that can prevent or decrease their work related MSK manifestations.