The risks and effect of work related musculoskeletal pain on work performance among physiotherapists in Limpopo Province

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the major health problems facing workers today including many physiotherapists. The aim of the study was to determine the risks and effects of work related musculoskeletal pain on work performance among physiotherapists in Limpopo province. Methods: This was a cross sectional descriptive study using self-administered questionnaires. Data was collected using an online REDCap questionnaire that was circulated among physiotherapists in Limpopo province through South African Society of Physiotherapy (SASP), Physiotherapy Association of South Africa (PASA, Limpopo Department of Health Physiotherapy Provincial Coordinator (LDOHPPC). The data was analysed using STATA version 14.1 software and summarised using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 106 physiotherapists accessed the online questionnaire and 59 participants accepted and completed the questionnaire giving a response rate of 55.1%. A lifetime prevalence of work related musculoskeletal pain (WRMP) in Limpopo province was 84.4% (n=50). More female 78% (n=39) participants were affected compared to males 22% (n=11). Majority of the physiotherapists with WRMP were working in public sector (n=31; 67.4%). The low back was the most commonly affected site with 47.5% (n=28) participants reporting WRMP, followed by the neck (n=25; 42.4%). Treating a larger number of patients in one day and malfunctioning of equipment (n=33; 66%) were the major risk factors contributing to WRMP. The most common coping strategies among physiotherapists was adjusting the height of the plinth or bed (n=30; 60%) and modifying the patient position or the therapist position (n=27; 54%). Majority of the physiotherapists (n=38; 76%) reported having continued to work with the discomfort, while only 34% (n=17) are considering leaving the profession. Conclusion: The prevalence of WRMP among physiotherapists in Limpopo province was found to be high. Despite the high prevalence, physiotherapists are not considering changing their careers due to WRMP