Prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among paramedics in Quebec, Canada

Paramedics face a challenging work environment with a high risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). This study examined the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and its associations with self-reported individual, physical, and psychosocial risk factors among 334 paramedics in Quebec. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and analysed using multiple logistic regressions. Results showed that 69% of participants reported musculoskeletal pain in the past 12 months, most commonly in the back, shoulders, and neck. Tasks involving hand movements above shoulder level and working with a twisted back were significantly associated with increased pain, particularly in the lower back. Psychosocial factors, such as low reward, were associated with neck pain.