Preventing Work-related Musculoskeletal Injuries

“… the primary focus in healthcare has been on immediate patient care rather than the long‑term well-being of healthcare workers. This has often led to ergonomic considerations being overlooked.” Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) are very common among ophthalmologists. The literature suggests that anywhere from 35 to 93% of ophthalmologists experience WMSDs. These disorders and injuries predominantly affect the neck, lower back and shoulders. As discussed in past issues of Canadian Eye Care Today, WMSDs are associated with suboptimal ergonomics related to the slit lamp and operating microscope, both of which promote the adoption of a forward head posture (FHP).