Stretch Exercises

Abstract

Repetitive strain injuries and the signs and symptoms of a musculoskeletal injury are widely recognized as serious hazards for echocardiographers. The aim of this research project was to design, implement, and evaluate an appropriate exercise program and to reduce the reported levels of signs and symptoms that echocardiographers experience in their entire upper body during a working day. Ergonomic task assessments were performed on a group of echocardiographers. The specific muscles that were used were identified, and a stretch exercise program was designed to target those areas. A single blind research study was undertaken with two small groups of echocardiographers with similar work practices. The experimental group was trained in the stretch exercise program and was interviewed monthly while the 12-week study was taking place. The control group was given no information concerning the stretch exercises. Both groups completed pre and post questionnaires and signs and symptoms surveys. At the end of the study, the experimental group reported positive feedback on the stretch exercises and found them very beneficial. A longer, double blind study with more echocardiographers with similar workloads will have to be considered to properly test the designed stretch exercise program and to confirm that it will reduce the reported levels of signs and symptoms of musculoskeletal injury to which echocardiographers are susceptible.