Effect of a Stretching Exercise Program on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Operating Room Nurses: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background:

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a common occupational health concern among nurses, particularly operating room (OR) nurses because of prolonged static postures and repetitive tasks in confined surgical settings. Here, we evaluated the effect of a structured stretching exercise program for OR nurses on musculoskeletal discomfort.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental two-group pretest–posttest design was employed. Using a convenience sample, we recruited OR nurses with musculoskeletal pain or discomfort lasting ≥30 days in the past year from a regional teaching hospital in Taiwan. The intervention group (n = 20) completed 30 minutes of stretching 5 days/week for 6 weeks, with one supervised and four app-guided sessions. The control group (n = 20) continued their usual routines. WMSDs in 15 body regions were assessed with the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire at baseline and post-intervention. Intervention effects were analyzed using independent and paired t-tests.

Findings:

Participants had a mean age and OR experience of 37.8 (standard deviation, 7.7) and 11.9 years (standard deviation, 10.9), respectively. The intervention group showed a significantly greater reduction in total musculoskeletal discomfort scores than the control group (t = 5.73, p < .001). Significant improvements occurred in 8 of 15 body regions, particularly the right shoulder (t = 3.04, p = .006), lower back (t = 4.83, p < .001), and left wrist/hand (t = 3.25, p = .004).

Conclusions:

A structured stretching program is a feasible, low-cost strategy to reduce WMSDs and promote well-being among OR nurses.

Application to Practice:

These findings support implementing exercise interventions in occupational health promotion for perioperative settings.