Work-related upper quadrant musculoskeletal disorders in midwives, nurses and physicians: A systematic review of risk factors and functional consequences

Background: Given a worldwide shortage of primary health care workers predicted to worsen, it is vital to address sources of attrition among these professionals. One such source may be work-related musculoskeletal disorders. We aimed to identify risk factors for and functional consequences of work-related upper quadrant musculoskeletal disorders in midwives, nurses and physicians. Methods: Eighteen of 87 studies identified from an electronic database search met the inclusion and quality criteria. Results: job demands, demanding work schedules and physical exposures have the strongest associations with work-related upper quadrant musculoskeletal disorders. Functional consequences included widespread use of prescription and over-the-counter medications and major negative impact on activities of daily living. No studies of midwives were located. Conclusion: High-quality studies of midwives as well as better-designed prospective studies of nurses and physicians are needed. Results of such studies could inform preventive strategies and reduce the contribution of work-related musculoskeletal disorders to attrition. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.