Posture, adjustable equipment key to preventing musculoskeletal pain in ophthalmologists
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Paying attention to posture and investing in adjustable equipment can prevent pain and injuries in ophthalmologists, according to a presentation at Real World Ophthalmology.
Allison L. Jones, MD, MS, FACOEM, MRO, founder and CEO of ARMD LLC and VRMD Inc., said about 14% to 15% of ophthalmologists plan to retire early due to musculoskeletal pain and disorders.
“Because of the equipment you use, the focal length and how you’re trying to get to a patient — because you’re dealing with beautiful humans on the other end of the lenses you’re using to see their eyes — you are oftentimes put into a forward head leaning posture, which is where the problems start,” Jones said.
Jones said every inch of forward head posture adds 10 pounds of pressure to the spine. The best way to prevent pain and injuries is to maintain a neutral posture, which involves creating a straight line from hips to shoulders and from shoulders to ears, she said.
Jones recommended investing in equipment that can be moved or adjusted, such as sitting-to-standing desks and adjustable chairs. Modern visualization equipment tends to be more ergonomic, she said, allowing physicians to reposition the equipment instead of themselves.
“It’s worthwhile to take that time to [adjust your equipment and center] yourself before you start trying to interact or interface with the patient, so you know you’re safe before you start going,” she said.
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Jones AL. Ergonomic lessons for young ophthalmologists from occupational and environmental medicine. Presented at: Real World Ophthalmology; Sept. 30, 2023 (virtual meeting).
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