Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Associated Work-related Risk Factors in Chinese Physiotherapists: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Due to the physical and work nature demands, physiotherapists (PTs) face a high risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders.Objectives: o compare the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) between pediatric and adult PTs in China.Materials and Methods: A cross‑sectional study was conducted between December 2023 to February 2024 among pediatric and adult PTs. It involved distributing a self-administered questionnaire to 129 PTs in three Chinese provinces, including five tertiary hospitals. This questionnaire collected demographic characteristics and data on the presence of musculoskeletal complaints within the last 12 months.Results: Out of 192, there were 129 PTs responded to the questionnaire (67.18%). These include 62 pediatric PTs and 67 adult PTs group. The prevalence of WMSDs among the pediatric group was 53.9%, compared to 63.8% among the adult PTs group. However, significant differences in the body mass index and work experience were observed between the PTs groups (P-values = 0.019 and 0.018 respectively). Furthermore, no significant differences in demographic and associated factors, including workload, were found among PTs groups. Lower back was the most affected region in pediatric PTs (n = 46, 74.2%) and adult PTs (n = 44, 65.7%).Conclusion: In China, PTs frequently experienced WMSDs, with the lower back being the primary affected region. This study provides valuable insights to inform the development of strategies aimed at reducing WMSDs among PTs, thereby improving their occupational health and safety. It explores unique challenges and differences in population conditions between pediatric and adult PTs.

Keywords

• work-related musculoskeletal disorders
• pediatric physiotherapist
• adult physiotherapist