Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Radiographers: An Exploration of Self-reported Symptoms

Purpose To explore self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms in radiographers registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in the United States. There is a gap in the literature focusing on the unique set of risk factors for radiographers. Methods A subset of ARRT radiographers received an email invitation to complete an online survey that included questions about their experience with musculoskeletal symptoms and their exposure to potential risk factors for those symptoms. Results Out of the 635 ARRT credentialed, nonretired radiographers who completed the survey, 81% reported experiencing pain or discomfort while performing patient cases. Through logistic regression statistical modeling, a set of 4 personal factors (including poorer perceptions of health and sleep quality), 1 work demographic factor (working in fluoroscopy), and 3 psychosocial work factors (including perceptions of higher physically demanding workload and work pressure and stress) were identified in differentiating radiographers who experience pain or discomfort when performing patient cases from those who do not. Discussion Consistent with prior research, these results indicate multiple work-related factors, including physical and psychosocial work factors, appear to be associated with the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in radiographers. Ideas for addressing these risk factors are discussed, as well as opportunities for radiography managers and academics to collaborate in evaluating the effectiveness of intervention ideas when deployed in practice. Conclusion Although this study is cross-sectional, these results can be used to inform intervention efforts, such as limiting or rotating work duties in fluoroscopy, reducing other physically demanding aspects of work, addressing understaffing, which increases work pressure in many ways, and promoting employee self-care practices.