Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries and Disorders Among Occupational and Physical Therapists

TLDR

Occupational therapists face high risk of work‑related musculoskeletal disorders, yet data are scarce, while up to 91 % of physical therapists report such injuries. This study aimed to quantify the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of work‑related musculoskeletal symptoms among occupational therapists and compare them to physical therapists in Wisconsin. Researchers mailed surveys to 3,297 randomly selected occupational and physical therapists in Wisconsin. The 2006 incidence was 16.5 injuries per 100 full‑time occupational therapists and 16.9 per 100 full‑time physical therapists, comparable to heavy‑manufacturing workers, indicating similar significant injury risks.

Abstract

Occupational therapists are at risk of work-related injuries (WRIs) because of the demanding nature of their work. However, information about WRIs and musculoskeletal disorders among occupational therapists is limited. For comparison, research indicates that up to 91% of physical therapists experience work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and pain. The purpose of this study was to gather new information about the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries among occupational therapists and to compare this information with physical therapists in the state of Wisconsin. Investigators mailed surveys to 3,297 randomly selected physical and occupational therapists living in Wisconsin. Results indicated a 2006 annual incidence rate of 16.5 injuries per 100 full-time workers among occupational therapists and 16.9 injuries per 100 full-time workers among physical therapists, a rate similar to workers employed in heavy manufacturing. Occupational therapists and physical therapists face similar and significant risks of injury and WMSDs.