International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 5 (September-October 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of October to publish your research paper in the issue of September-October.

Ergonomics and occupational hazards: assessing the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among operation theatre technologists and evaluating the long-term efficacy of ergonomic interventions

Author(s) Mr. Zakir Hussain Parray, Ms. Preethi . P, Mr. Badugu . Saikumar, Mr. Sudhakar . P
Country India
Abstract This study investigates the prevalence, anatomical distribution, and severity of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among operation theatre (OT) technologists and evaluates the 12-month clinical efficacy of a structured ergonomic intervention bundle. Operating room environments impose rigorous physical demands, including prolonged static standing, awkward spinal postures, heavy patient transfers, and repetitive fine-motor manipulations, predisposing healthcare professionals to chronic musculoskeletal ailments. Utilizing a prospective, multi-center cohort design, 150 active OT technologists were evaluated over a 12-month period. Baseline assessments incorporated the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) observational tool during high-acuity surgical procedures. The intervention protocol introduced adjustable operating stools, anti-fatigue flooring, mandatory intraoperative micro-break intervals, and specialized biomechanical training. Post-intervention evaluations demonstrated statistically significant reductions in mean REBA scores (p < 0.001), substantial decreases in self-reported pain intensity across the lower back, neck, and shoulders via the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and a marked reduction in musculoskeletal-related medical absenteeism. These findings highlight the critical necessity of integrating comprehensive ergonomic frameworks and institutional safety policies within allied health operational workflows.
Keywords Allied health sciences, Ergonomics, Musculoskeletal disorders, Operation theatre technologists, Occupational hazards, Rapid Entire Body Assessment.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 8, Issue 5, September-October 2026
Published On 2026-09-08
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i05.87378

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