Ab1356 the Role of the Occupational Physician in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Healthcare Workers

Background: Healthcare workers are exposed to biomechanical constraints that increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. These disorders are among the most common occupational diseases. If they are diagnosed and treated early, the physical capacity of workers can be preserved, and their premature professional exclusion avoided. Objectives: The aims of our study are to describe the musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) diagnosed in healthcare professionals (HCPs), and to highlight the role of the occupational physician in screening for certain MSDs and preventing occupational displacement. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of HCPs in a regional hospital in the city of Sfax (Tunisia). Data were collected during periodic occupational medicine consultations in 2023. The diagnosed MSDs are described. The characteristics of the workplace and the medical reports of their work-aptitude are reported. Results: We examined 102 workers with an average age of 46, the majority of whom were women (66.7%). The subjects of our study were paramedical staff in 57.8% of cases, 52.5% of whom were nurses. Fifteen individuals (14.7%) held an administrative post, and 7 doctors were surveyed. The prevalence of MSDs in the study population was 41.2%. The most frequently reported functional complaints were lower back pain (20.6%), neck pain (14.7%) and cervical pain (10.8%). Radiological investigations revealed a lumbar disc hernia in 8 individuals, upper cervical osteoarthritis in 6 subjects and at least unilateral gonarthrosis in 4 HCPs. In addition, carpal tunnel syndrome was present in 2 women, of which one had undergone surgery and was working as a midwife. At the end of the periodic check-ups, medical certificates of work aptitude were delivered, only one of which, in the case of an ambulance driver, indicated that carrying heavy weighs should be avoided. A declaration of occupational disease was issued for a tendinopathy of the supraspinatus tendon of the shoulder in an instrumentation technician. Conclusion: MSDs involve a variety of risk factors, both individual and occupational. Biomechanical stresses are a major factor in the genesis of these disorders, even if they remain underestimated in certain professional sectors. The rheumatologist plays a major role in the early and appropriate management of these MSDs. However, the occupational physician's role is essential in diagnosing and preventing occupational risk factors, in order to reduce biomechanical stress and avoid incapacity for work. REFERENCES: NIL. Acknowledgements: NIL. Disclosure of Interests: None declared.