The Nature, Cause, and Extent of Occupational Musculoskeletal Injuries among Sonographers

Abstract

Concerns regarding injury rates, as well as resulting discomfort and disability, among sonographers led to a needs assessment across 13 work sites. General sonographers completed 82,642 exams in 2001-2002. Sick time and workers’ compensation costs of more than $180,000 occurred due to worker disability in the same time period. In an effort to improve working conditions and retain workers, funding was allocated to assess the problem and provide recommendations to prevent and manage the injuries more effectively. A survey was administered across the sector to 76 sonographers. The respondent rate was 88%. The results describe the nature of injury, types of scans causing discomfort, effectiveness of various treatments and providers, and workers’ feelings regarding work organization and culture. The results identify and validate the need for action. Recommendations include a standardized approach for treatment, education, and ergonomic work site training as well as prescreening of students for injury risk factors.