Hand Grip Pressure Between Various Transducers and the Related Perception of Pain Experienced by Sonographers

INTRODUCTION: Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common types of work related illnesses. Medical sonography has been specifically affected by the burden of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Approximately 80% to 90% of sonographers have been affected by WMSDs. This may be due to the repetition and force exerted during daily workload and it is suggested that the transducer design may be a major factor in hand-wrist strains. To prevent strain, scanning ambidextrously has been recommended to possibly reduce repetitive injuries. The demands for medical sonography have increased but ergonomic improvements of scanning equipment have yet to meet those demands. There is a lack of research to show what design of scanning equipment would be best suited to reduced WMSDs and still obtain a quality scan. This study will analyze the pressure exerted on two ultrasound transducers, each with a different design, to determine if transducer design results in significant difference on the amount of pressure exerted to obtain a quality scan. SUBJECTS: Three experienced sonographers will perform separate scans with their right and left hands on the same volunteer model. Each scan will be performed on the volunteer’s left and right kidney with two different transducer designs. METHODS: A Novel Pliance hand sensor will be secured around the transducer to determine the amount of pressure exerted directly on the transducer. Before and after the scans, sonographers will be asked to rate their perceived level of pain, comfort, and transducer preference via an interview and written questions. RESULTS: Data has yet to be collected and analyzed to determine the results. CONCLUSION: This study will be done in hopes to determine the relationship between pressure applied and pain experienced