Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: Prevalence Among Clinical Radiographers in Teaching Hospitals in North-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Background:  The components and activities within the scope of radiography practice pose high risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) to radiographers in the course of performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of WMSDs and identify the possible causes among radiographers within the study locality. Methods: A validated self-administered questionnaire was distributed to all registered and licensed radiographers working in teaching hospitals within the region. The questionnaire contained 21 questions, divided into 3 sections; “A” captured demographic data; “B” captured educational qualifications and work experience; and “C” captured the prevalence, possible causes and responses to WRMSDs. Results: The respondents were basically within the age range of 21 – 30 years (66.6%), with most of them being male. Most radiographers had clinical working experience between 1 to 10 years, and worked  between 6-8 hours and above daily, with a case load of 30 patients and above. The reported case of WRMSD was 93.3%. The major identified causes of WRMSDs were maintaining of prolonged static position (20%), and frequent bending and twisting (16.7%). This study showed no statistically significant correlation between gender and WRMSDs. Conclusion: There was remarkable evidence of WRMSDs among the practicing clinical radiographers within the North-Western Nigeria.