(1129) Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) among ultrasound sonographers

Sonographers are at high risk for serious work-related musculoskeletal injuries. Despite ergonomic solutions, nearly 90% of sonographers experience chronic pain for more than half of their career, and one in five sustain a career-ending injury. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) among sonographers have been an understudied topic. We aim to 1) assess the prevalence of WRMSD among sonographers in our local health system, 2) correlate workplace environment with the development of WRMSD, 3) assess the perception of WRMSD among sonographers, and 4) evaluate the impact of WRMSD on the career of affected sonographers.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study using a 40-question anonymous survey was electronically distributed to sonographers in our local health system. The survey was developed from previous research and had four main sections 1) demographic information, 2) work schedule and tasks, 3) pain and discomfort, 4) work environment.

Results:

91 surveys were distributed with a 45% response rate (n=41). The majority were age < 29 (34.2%) with a BMI between 18.5-24.9 (39%). 60.9% scan patients with obesity most of the time. 17.1% gets no breaks during a typical shift and 31.6% disagreed that they can take scheduled breaks. 46.2% reports that pain is most pronounced during work hours, and 81.6% reports that scanning patients with obesity aggravates their pain the most. Of those who sought treatment for their injuries, only 17% reported that the interventions were successful and 59% continues to scan with pain. 100% of respondents are concerned about developing work-related injury. 84.6% know of other sonographers who have left the field due to their work-related injury or pain. Most respondents (29.3%) would modify the current equipment design and maneuverability to improve their workplace.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that sonographers are at an increased risk for WRMSD. These injuries can potentially impact quality of life and can ultimately be career-ending. More research and advocacy are needed to improve ergonomics and working conditions to help reduce the rate of WRSMD among sonographers.