The U.K. Society of Radiographers (SoR) has released practical advice on how sonographers can reduce the risk of pain and discomfort from work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders.
A statement from Gill Harrison, society professional officer for ultrasound, includes offering and engaging with training, risk assessments, and safe use of equipment.
Harrison give the following tips:
- Face the monitor to reduce spinal rotation.
- Keep your scanning arm humerus vertical, with no posterior extension.
- Keep your scanning forearm horizontal.
- Have all fingers on the probe. Don't grip tightly and don't push unless absolutely necessary to the clinical examination.
- Take microbreaks during the scan to relax the muscles and tendons.
- Do dynamic warm up exercises before scanning and stretching between cases and lists.
- Be body aware. If you have any symptoms of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, change your position or technique. If all else fails, get advice from occupational health, a physio, or ergonomic specialist. Don't ignore it.
Further details are available on the SoR website.
