Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Egyptian physical therapists

Abstract Background Physical therapists (PTs) are frequently exposed to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). There is limited evidence on the prevalence of these injuries and their potential risk factors in Egyptian PTs. This study aimed at estimating WMSDs among PTs as well therapists’ coping strategies. Further, it investigated association between socioeconomic factors. Results Three hundred eighty-five eligible participants completed a survey. The was 99.5%. five top affected anatomic regions were lower back (69.1%), neck (65.7%), shoulder (47.7%), wrist/hand (39.1%), upper (37.0%). Therapists rated awkward positions handling heavy patients most common predisposing for sustaining injuries. Regarding strategies, seeking informal help from peers treat injuries-related symptoms changing posture while working mostly used by Overall, female had higher injury than males (Cramer’s V < 0.5, p ≤ 0.05); except ( > 0.05). Education multiple facilities simultaneously (public private clinics) correlated significantly = 0.14, 0.049 0.178, 0.002, respectively) 0.16, .019 0.142, 0.020, respectively). not associated with experience or specialty Conclusion prevalent Egypt, especially females, academic education, those simultaneously.