Following the Principles of Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders in Ultrasonographers

Abstract

Background/Aim. It has been noticed that doctors who regularly perform ultrasound examinations have different clinical manifestations of musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this research is to examine the level of knowledge of ultrasonographers regarding preventative measures and health consequences of the forced body positions during work.Subjects and methods. The total of 75 doctors of both genders, aged 31-50 years, who use ultrasound diagnostics participated in the research. The research was conducted throughout 2016, as a cross-sectional study, with the aid of a structured questionaire.Results. The total of 60% subjects either rarely use the break during working hours or do not have a break at all. The participants most commonly use the movable monitor and the ability to wrap the cable around their arm (73,3%). This percentage is similar in all age groups. The respondents most often stated that they walk daily (41,3%), with no differences among age groups. 25% of the respondents negate any spine related pains, while over a half said that they experience pain in one segment of the spinal column (cervical, thoracic or lumbar), regardless of the age group. 52% said that they serch for information on their own accord, while 36% stated that they are not at all informed. Only in less than 10% of cases is information provided by the authorities in the institution where the participants are employed, and during regular health examinations, information is given by the designated doctor in 2,7% of cases.Conclusion. The respondents implement the recommendations regarding safe work and other preventative measures to a very small extent, regardless of gender and age. Most of the respondents experience pain in the spine and joints, which can be related to the work in ultrasound diagnostics. Additionally, doctors are not well-informed regarding the preventative measures.