Digital Survey Assessment of Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Complaints Among US Ophthalmologists

Abstract

Purpose To quantify features of musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints among US ophthalmologists and analyze factors related to symptom severity. Methods Cornea, glaucoma, retina, and comprehensive practitioners were invited to complete a web-based survey via email. Data on demographics, practice and procedural volumes, wellness activities, job stress, MSK health, the Total Disability Index (TDI), and ergonomics were collected. Significance testing was performed to evaluate factors related to TDI score. Results Of the 245 ophthalmologists contacted, 58.8% (n = 144) responded at least in part to the survey. Pain episodes were reported in 81.4% (n = 83) of 102 respondents, with 48.1% (n = 49) experiencing daily or weekly attacks. The neck, low back, and shoulders were commonly affected, yet only 57.1% (n=20) of those with shoulder pain reported a corresponding diagnosis. The mean TDI score was 6.2 ± 7.3%, indicating minimal disability related to the spine. Demographics, volume metrics, and wellness hours were each not significantly associated with TDI score (p > 0.05). Higher job stress ratings were reported by those who experienced more frequent pain attacks (p = 0.02) and those with higher TDI scores (p = 0.001). Greater difficulty with clinic, laser, and surgery job tasks was observed in respondents with higher TDI scores (p < 0.001, p = 0.005, and p < 0.001) and more bodily pain locations (p = 0.002, p = 0.002, and p = 0.001). Respondents who pursued practice modifications (p = 0.03) and treatments (p = 0.01) to reduce or prevent pain had higher mean TDI scores, and 94.2% of respondents (n = 97) were interested in learning more about ergonomics. Conclusion Mild MSK complaints were highly prevalent among the surveyed ophthalmologists, and a similar trend could be expected for other US ophthalmologists. Greater frequency and severity of pain may contribute to physician burnout. There may be underdiagnosis of MSK pathology yet also high demand for ergonomic strategies and MSK treatments, suggesting a need for practical solutions.

Three-Dimensional Heads-up Display in Cataract Surgery: A Review

“…Furthermore, 9.6% suffered from reduced working hours and 1.2% eliminated surgery from their practice altogether. 10 Weinstock et al 12 studied the musculoskeletal complaints of 25 anterior segment surgeons: 77% reported that 3D HUD reduces the severity and frequency of their musculoskeletal pain. The surgeons included in this study, however, had varying weekly surgical volume and 3D HUD cataract experience.…”

“…Tan et al10 reported that of 245 ophthalmologists, 81.4% reported musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, or disability, which was commonly exacerbated by surgery. Furthermore, 9.6% suffered from reduced working hours and 1.2% eliminated surgery from their practice altogether 10. Weinstock et al12 studied the musculoskeletal complaints of 25 anterior segment surgeons: 77% reported that 3D HUD reduces the severity and frequency of their musculoskeletal pain.…”

Impact of Heads-Up Display Use on Ophthalmologist Productivity, Wellness, and Musculoskeletal Symptoms

“…The survey from which the current paper's findings are derived is the same survey described in a previous publication. 8 Implied consent was obtained by informing participants of the purpose, data usage, anonymity, and voluntariness of the study preceding survey administration. No incentives were provided, and participants could exit the survey at any time.…”

“…From a survey of mostly high-volume ophthalmologists in the United States, it was found that 81.4% of participants experienced episodes of pain, discomfort, or disability. 8 Respondents endorsed moderate-to-severe work-related stress on average, which was significantly linked to the extent of their symptoms. In response to MSK complaints, the most selected actions were physical maneuvers such as stretching, exercise, and operating room (OR) postural adjustments.…”

“…In response to MSK complaints, the most selected actions were physical maneuvers such as stretching, exercise, and operating room (OR) postural adjustments. 8 …”