An Overview of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Therapists in Paediatric Services, by Profession and Body Region

Abstract

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are among the most prevalent occupational health problems globally. WHO reports approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide experience musculoskeletal disorders, and 40.5% of occupational diseases in Indonesia are work-related. Physical therapy practitioners are high-risk for WMSDs due to repetitive activity, non-ergonomic postures, and prolonged patient interaction, compounded by limited therapist numbers in Indonesia. Research on WMSD risk factors among Indonesian physical therapy practitioners remains limited.Objective: To understand the characteristics and differences in the approaches of therapists working in paediatric services, based on their profession (occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists) and the affected body areas.Methods: Cross-sectional design with 76 physical therapy practitioners (occupational therapists, speech therapists, physiotherapists) in pediatric services in Jabodetabek, selected by purposive sampling. Instruments used were the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and Job Satisfaction Survey. Data were analyzed bivariately using Pearson chi-square test.Results: Of 76 respondents, 73 (96.1%) experienced WMSD complaints within the past 12 months, highest in the lower back/waist (75%), shoulder (65.8%), and neck (46%). The 7-day prevalence among occupational therapists and physiotherapists (93.8% each) was higher than speech therapists (64.3%) (p=0.006), with significant differences also in the lower back (p=0.001 and p=0.034) and shoulder (p=0.019), but not the neck (p=0.060 and p=0.467).Conclusion: WMSDs are commonly experienced by physical therapy practitioners, particularly physiotherapists and occupational therapists, especially in the lower back and shoulder. None of the variables examined were associated with WMSDs among physical therapy practitioners.