Sosyal Bilimler ve Sağlık Bülteni

Özgün Makale

No. 19 (2026)

Work-Related Neck Region Musculoskeletal Disorders In Healthcare Workers Within The Framework Of A Health Promoting Hospital Approach: A Systematic Review

Submitted
June 4, 2026
Published
2026-09-02

Abstract

The aim of this study was to review systematic reviews and meta-analyses on work-related musculoskeletal (WRMS) disorders among healthcare workers and to evaluate the findings within the context of the Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH) approach. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines by searching PubMed for English-language articles published between 2016 and 2026. In the initial screening stage, studies focusing on “work-related musculoskeletal disorders and neck pain/disorders” were identified. Subsequently, among these studies, only those reporting interventions implemented among healthcare workers in institutions adopting the HPH approach were included in the review. From the initial 810 studies accessed, eight studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected for review. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the AMSTAR-2 tool. According to the findings from the literature, the prevalence of WRMS disorders affecting the neck region among healthcare workers varied widely, ranging from 26% to 92%, reflecting considerable heterogeneity across studies. The available evidence was found to be particularly concentrated on surgeons and dentists. Risk factors include prolonged static and poor posture, inappropriate ergonomic conditions, high workload, long working hours, lack of ergonomics training, age, length of experience, female gender, and insufficient physical activity. Interventions such as ergonomics training, exercise programs, workplace adjustments, equipment optimization, and micro-breaks have been shown to reduce pain levels and improve quality of life. Combined ergonomic and physical activity interventions have been found to be more effective than single-component approaches. Neck region WRMS disorders are common and multifactorial occupational health problem in healthcare workers. The HPH approach offers a holistic framework that includes not only individual measures but also ergonomic adjustments, employee participation, organizational policies, and sustainable workplace health programs. Integrating ergonomics training into the education process of healthcare professionals, supporting physical activity programs, and improving working conditions are considered fundamental strategies for HPH approach in preventing neck region WRMS disorders.

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