Association Between Exercise Frequency and Self-Reported Endoscopy-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among...

Background Endoscopy-related injuries (ERIs) are common among endoscopists and can lead to decreased procedural volume, disability, and early retirement. The impact of physical conditioning on endoscopy-related musculoskeletal symptoms is not well studied. We aimed to investigate the association between exercise and the prevalence of self-reported endoscopy-related musculoskeletal symptoms (SERMS). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of gastroenterology fellows and attendings at a tertiary-care academic center. Participants reported demographics, procedural volume, ergonomics training history, injury history, and exercise frequency and type. Exercise frequency was further categorized into fewer than four days/week or greater than or equal to four days/week of moderate-to-strenuous activity. Statistical analysis utilized Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results Of the 25 respondents (median age 37.5 years), 18 (72%) reported a history of SERMS. Endoscopists with fewer than or equal to six years of experience reported significantly higher rates of thumb pain (9 [69%] vs. 3 [25%], p = 0.047) and hand pain (6 [46%] vs. 0 [0%], p = 0.015) compared to established physicians. Physicians exercising at least four days per week had a significantly lower prevalence of thumb pain compared to those exercising less than four days (3 [23%] vs. 9 [75%]; p = 0.017). There were no significant associations between injury rates and procedural volume or prior ergonomics training. Conclusion ERIs are highly prevalent, yet data regarding ergonomics and injury prevention are limited. In this study, frequent moderate-to-strenuous exercise was associated with decreased prevalence of self-reported thumb pain related to performing endoscopy. These findings support the need for further research on protective factors for SERMS and perhaps the institution of structured physical conditioning programs for endoscopist occupational health.