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Workplace musculoskeletal problems in occupational therapy students.
Joanne Morabito1, Stefania Penkala1,2, Kristy Coxon3,4
1School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia.
BMC Public Health
|April 7, 2021
Summary
One in three occupational therapy students experience workplace musculoskeletal problems before graduation. Previous disorders and psychosocial caseloads increase risk, highlighting the need for preventative strategies in occupational therapy education.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Public health
- Musculoskeletal health
Background:
- Workplace musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a leading cause of disability in Australia.
- Occupational therapists report high rates of WMSDs, but data on students is limited.
- Novice clinicians in health professions face higher risks of WMSDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of WMSDs among occupational therapy students.
- To identify specific body areas affected and impact on daily activities.
- To inform preventative strategies for occupational therapy education.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study using the Standardised Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire.
- Survey administered to occupational therapy students post-work-based training.
- Logistic regression used to analyze factors associated with WMSDs.
Main Results:
- 33.6% of students reported WMSDs in the past 12 months; 47.9% of those reported issues in the past 7 days.
- Neck and shoulder were commonly affected areas; lower back and shoulder problems most frequently impacted daily activities.
- Previous WMSDs, female gender, non-standard joint mobility, and psychosocial caseloads were associated with increased risk.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of occupational therapy students experience WMSDs before graduation.
- Preventative strategies should consider previous musculoskeletal issues and the demands of psychosocial caseloads.
- Further research and educational interventions are needed to address WMSD prevalence in students.
