Journal article
Work-related musculoskeletal injuries among Australian osteopaths : a preliminary investigation
International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, Vol.27, pp.14-22
2018
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Source: InCites
Abstract
<p>Background: Work-related musculoskeletal injury (WRMI) is a significant risk factor for registered manual therapists, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and chiropractors. The physically demanding nature of manual therapy has been identified as the common factor in WRMIs among these professions. There is currently no available literature on the prevalence of WRMIs among osteopaths.<br />Objective: This research sought to collect preliminary data to establish the prevalence and characteristics of WRMIs among Australian osteopaths; including body area injured, risk factors and strategies used to manage injury. <br />Method: Registered osteopaths, who were members of the professional association Osteopathy Australia, were invited to participate via an online survey. <br />Results: A total of 160 surveys were completed. The incidence of WRMI was high, with 58% of respondents having sustained one or more injuries. Results indicated that the wrist and the fingers are the most frequently injured areas (41%), while the least injured body part was the knee (1.1%). Performing repetitive tasks accounted for 52% of injuries, followed by performing manipulative techniques (23%). Working too many hours per week (43%) and fatigue (38%) were the main factors contributing to injury. <br />Conclusions: The findings highlight the risk to osteopaths of sustaining musculoskeletal injuries while working in clinical practice.</p>
Details
- Title
- Work-related musculoskeletal injuries among Australian osteopaths : a preliminary investigation
- Creators
- Gopi McLeod - Southern Cross UniversityMichael Murphy - Southern Cross UniversityTe Marana Henare - Southern Cross UniversityBernadette Dlabik - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, Vol.27, pp.14-22
- Identifiers
- 3629; 991012821766202368
- Academic Unit
- School of Health and Human Sciences
- Resource Type
- Journal article