Work-Related Injuries Amongst Occupational Therapists: A Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to establish preliminary information regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) amongst occupational therapists working in Australia. Method: Forty-six of 141 occupational therapists accepted an email invitation to complete a web-based survey. Results: The incidence of WRMDs was high, with 29 (63%) respondents experiencing one or more WRMDs within the previous 12 months and 38 (80.4%) over the course of their career. Of the 76 WRMDs described, 37 (48.7%) were not reported at all and only 5 (6.5%) were reported through official reporting systems. Conclusion: The findings from this study indicate that the current reporting of WRMDs is poor and that WRMDs have an impact on individuals' work and leisure activities.