Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Physiotherapists Working in Tertiary Care Hospitals in Lahore: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major occupational health concern among healthcare professionals, particularly physiotherapists, due to the physically demanding nature of their work, which includes manual therapy, patient handling, repetitive movements, and prolonged static postures. These occupational exposures place physiotherapists at increased risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, potentially affecting their health, productivity, and quality of care. Objective: To determine the prevalence and distribution of musculoskeletal disorders among physiotherapists working in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 200 physiotherapists employed in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire incorporating the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to assess 12-month musculoskeletal symptoms across different body regions. Demographic and occupational characteristics were recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results: The overall prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was 76.5% (95% CI: 70.6–82.4). The most commonly affected body regions were the lower back (52.0%), neck (45.5%), shoulders (41.0%), and wrists/hands (33.5%). Female physiotherapists demonstrated significantly higher odds of musculoskeletal disorders compared with males (OR = 2.03, p = 0.034). Working more than 8 hours per day (OR = 2.75, p = 0.002) and frequent manual patient handling (OR = 2.96, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: Musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among physiotherapists in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, highlighting the need for ergonomic interventions, workload management, and preventive occupational health strategies.