Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Physical Therapists in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract

Abstract Background: Understanding the risk factors linked to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is crucial for enhancing health promotion and ensuring workplace safety among healthcare professionals particularly physical therapists (PTs). However, in Vietnam, there has been a lack of investigation into the relationship between risk factors and WMSDs among PTs. Therefore, this study was to determine whether potential risk factors contributed to the occurrence of WMSDs among PTs in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam. Method: An online self-reported questionnaire on WMSDs was administered to PTs. They were enrolled into this study if they met the criteria: aged ≥22 years, having graduated from a PT program, a full-time job with at least one year of experience. To analyze the data, both unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined using logistic regression. Results: Our study found that within the past 12 months, the prevalence of WMSDs was 76.4% (n=204/267): neck 58.4% and lower back 57.3%. Young PTs aged 20-29 years, limited education (<4 years), and short work experience (<7 years) had a 2-3 times higher risk of WMSDs. Adjusting for confounding variables, PTs who engaged in manual techniques/exercises, lifting/transferring patients, and maintaining awkward postures experienced a 5-7 times increased risk of WMSDs in the neck and lower back. Environmental factors, such as treatment tables, electrotherapy rooms, and the use of PTs modalities, and high stress were significantly associated with WMSDs. More than 50% of PTs adopted modified positions and implemented new treatment/techniques that did not aggravate their symptoms, as coping strategies. Conclusions: This study identifies all potential risk factors associated with WMSDs, affecting the neck and lower back among PTs in Vietnam. We recommends that PTs and the organizations address these risk factors to improve PTs' overall health, retain skilled workers, and encourage them to continue working.