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Neck and upper back pain among eye care professionals.
M Al-Marwani Al-Juhani1, R Khandekar2, M Al-Harby1
1Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh 11462, Saudi Arabia.
Neck and upper back pain affects 70% of Saudi eye care professionals, often linked to physical discomfort during work. Regular exercise may help prevent or reduce this pain.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ophthalmology
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Ophthalmologists and optometrists report higher rates of neck, hand/wrist, and lower back pain compared to family medicine physicians.
- Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in Saudi eye care professionals have not been previously studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and contributing factors of neck and upper back pain among eye care professionals in Saudi Arabia.
- Investigate associations with demographic, professional, and lifestyle factors.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted using a close-ended questionnaire.
- Data collected on pain frequency, demographics, comorbidities, work duration, injury history, and sub-specialty.
- Statistical analysis to identify determinants of pain.
Main Results:
- A response rate of 82% with 165 participants; 70% reported neck and upper back pain.
- Pain prevalence was similar across ophthalmologists and allied professionals, and surgical vs. medical sub-specialties.
- Pain was associated with physical discomfort during work (P < 0.01) but not mental stress; regular exercise showed a protective effect (OR = 0.5).
Conclusions:
- Neck and upper back pain is highly prevalent (70%) among Saudi eye care professionals.
- Pain is generally mild to moderate and improves during holidays.
- Regular physical exercise appears to be a significant preventive factor for neck and upper back pain.
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