Leaning. Reaching. Pushing. Extending your arms. Grasping an object in the same hand all day. These actions may sound simple, but as daily activities of OB/GYNs and Sonographers, they can lead to musculoskeletal injuries over time.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that physicians in certain specialties, including gynecology, are at an equal risk for musculoskeletal injuries as people who work in highly physical jobs such as mining or manufacturing. The study reported that OB/GYNs in particular experienced neck, shoulder and back pain during the previous 12 months more than practitioners in any other medical field. They also experienced upper extremity pain at the same rate as general surgeons.
The most common sites of musculoskeletal pain for sonographers are the neck, shoulder, wrists, hands and back. While gynecologists who perform ultrasound scans may not spend the majority of their day on this task, it is important to understand how a few ergonomic changes can help prevent long-term damage.
What Is a Musculoskeletal Injury?
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) reports that musculoskeletal injuries, or musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect up to 90 percent of sonographers and are the most frequently reported cause of lost work hours. This category of disorders includes long-term damage to bones, muscles, nerves and connective tissue such as ligaments and tendons. MSDs often develop gradually from repetitive movements or incorrect posture.
Physicians and sonograhers can reduce their risk of MSDs through self-care and postural awareness. A few tips can make a huge difference in your practice.
1. Reconfigure the Exam Room
Equipment positioning is key to good imaging and reducing strain on the sonographer. Instead of performing large numbers of bedside ultrasounds, experts recommend laying out a dedicated exam room.
An ultrasound room should be large enough for providers to move comfortably around the equipment and exam table and adjust the patient as needed. Anti-fatigue mats on the floor can help protect clinicians' joints during extended exams.
2. Place Ultrasound Equipment Within Reach
Your equipment should be ergonomic, adjustable and efficient. For example, the monitor should be articulated and positioned at eye level whether you are standing or seated. If you are seated, the machine should have adequate room for your knees to move under the workspace.
Lighter probes reduce muscle strain and torque on the wrist, while programs such as Voluson's Sono-automation technologies reduce the time of an exam. Built-in features of this technology, such as automated measurements and customizable protocols, translate into shorter exam times, fewer keystroke entries and less overall strain on the hands and wrists.
3. Prioritize Good Posture
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) notes that sonographers should work with the spine in a neutral position (never twisted) and their weight evenly distributed, whether seated or standing.
Some posture mistakes to avoid include:
- Leaning against the exam table.
- Working with your head turned (especially while bending forward).
- Working with your arms extended with no support.
It's important to take breaks between scans and to alternate sitting and standing as much as possible. Clinicians should also practice gripping the ultrasound probe with a palmar grip, rather than the fingertips, to save wrist and finger fatigue.
4. Host Regular Workplace Injury Prevention Training
The SDMS recommends that employers provide annual educational sessions on the risks of musculoskeletal disorders and how to prevent them. Ultrasound vendors also often offer free training that private practice owners should take advantage of.
Physicians and sonographers who perform large numbers of ultrasounds may be taking their job home with them — and not in a good way. Work-related MSDs can decrease the amount of enjoyable time that physicians and staff have at home and lead to burnout and frustration. A few ergonomic and operational changes can ensure that all are supporting their health, both in and out of the office.
