Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Physical Therapists in Tripoli: Abu-Salim District as a Case Study

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among physical therapists in the Abu-Salim district of Tripoli, identify the body regions most affected, and examine the relationship between occupational factors (working hours, work environment, and type of workplace—public or private sector) and the occurrence of WMSDs. A descriptive survey-based methodology was employed, targeting physical therapists working in rehabilitation centers, physiotherapy departments in hospitals, and private clinics within the district. Data was collected through a questionnaire distributed between June 25 and July 12, 2025, to a sample of 79 physical therapists. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic information, occupational factors, and body regions affected by WMSDs, The findings revealed that the prevalence of WMSDs among physical therapists in the Abu-Salim district was 25.15%. The most affected body regions, in descending order, were the lower back (53.16%), wrist (52.16%), and shoulder (51.90%). Moreover, demographic and occupational factors were significantly associated with WMSDs: age showed a negative correlation (r = -0.29, p = 0.01), years of experience demonstrated a positive correlation (r = 0.27, p = 0.02), and workplace type (public sector, private sector, or both) was also positively correlated (r = 0.26, p = 0.02).