Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sonographers

Abstract

The historical perspective of the problem ofwork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD)is outlined to understand why a newbiopsychosocial paradigm is required. The availableepidemiologic evidence is reviewed, and theclinical problem underlying the chronic pain thatmany sonographers experience is identified. Problem solving is broken down into identifyingobstacles to recovery. Causation is multifactorial, and therefore management must bemultimodal. A case that had a good outcome ispresented. New industry standards (May 2003)for the prevention of WRULD in sonographersare cited.