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Physical Therapists Get Hurt at Work, Too

Many people have work-related pain or discomfort. This is called a work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD). Often, physical therapists (PTs) treat people with WMSDs. Sometimes the PTs develop WMSDs too!

It seems that the PT’s knowledge and expertise would prevent WMSDs. This is not always the case. Several studies report a high rate of WMSDs among therapists. In fact, one in six Australian therapists changed jobs after a WMSD. By definition, WMSD is work-related and lasts three or more days. Therapists have neck, back, shoulder, wrist, hand, and thumb pain of this type.

PTs have a unique problem. They highly value hard work and being caring and helpful. These very traits put them at risk for injury themselves. Many therapists feel pressured by themselves and by others to work, even when they are in pain or injured. They want to be caring and hardworking even when it hurts their own health.

Knowledge and experience don't always prevent work-related injuries. This is shown by the high number of physical therapists with WMSDs.

Information from several studies in other work settings points out the need to change the job, not the worker. In other words, jobs can be made safer when hazards are identified and changed, rather than simply making workers do the same tasks in new ways. Further studies are needed to find ways to change the hazardous parts of the therapist's job. Controlling or reducing risks for WMSDs is the first step in this process.

References: Jean E. Cromie, PT, PhD, et al. Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Culture of Physical Therapy. In Physical Therapy. May 2002. Vol. 82. No. 5. Pp. 459-472.

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