A Survey on Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms among Radiographers in Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Setar, Kedah

The increasing incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among radiographers was an area of concern in the healthcare system. The increasing demand for radiology services, and the ergonomic hazards faced by most radiographers make them more susceptible for musculoskeletal problems. This study was done to assess the prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms among radiographers in Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Setar, Kedah. A survey was conducted on 55 radiographers. Information collected included demographic data, prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms, and potential risk factors. 100% of respondents reported experiencing at least one episode of symptoms in the past 12 months, while 92.7% reported the same in the last seven days. Lower back pain was the most frequent symptom (83.6%), followed by neck pain (67.3%), and right shoulder pain (61.8%). Some of the respondents were unable to perform their duties due to the symptoms. The major risk factors were lifting of heavy load (67.3%), prolonged stretching of the shoulder (65.5%) and the neck (58.2%). Demographics data and work tasks were found to be associated with prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms. There is significant evidence of musculoskeletal symptoms among radiographers in this study. Intervention is necessary to prevent this situation from getting worse.