Ergonomics in the Clinic and Operating Room

Recent surveys have shown that a majority of ophthalmologists report musculoskeletal pain in the neck, back, and shoulders. Those who regularly use surgical loupes or perform clinical exams that induce neck flexion—such as when examining for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)—may be at higher risk for chronic pain and disability. In today’s episode, Drs. Donny Suh and Safeer Siddicky discuss ergonomics in both the clinic and operating room, and how posture, behavior, and simple ergonomic modifications can help prevent musculoskeletal disease.

For all episodes or to claim CME credit for selected episodes, visit www.aao.org/podcasts.

CME Information

Release: December 28, 2023; expires December 28, 2026

Disclosures: 
Planner/Faculty: Dr. Young reports no relevant financial disclosures.
Faculty: Drs. Suh and Siddicky report no relevant financial disclosures.
Review Panel: Dr. Mazeyar Saboori receives consulting and lecture fees from Aerie Pharmaceuticals. The following reviewers report no financial disclosures: Jeffrey D. Henderer, MD; Danah Albreiki, MBBS; Ashiyani Nariani, MD, MPH; Annie Moreau, MD; and Allison Umfress, MD.

Learning Objective: Upon completion of this episode, the listener should be able to discuss ergonomic challenges in the ophthalmic clinic and operating room and how ophthalmologists can modify their behavior, instruments, and space to prevent musculoskeletal disease.

Audience: This activity is intended for comprehensive ophthalmologists.

Accreditation: The American Academy of Ophthalmology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits^TM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Hardware/Software Requirements: This learning activity requires a current web browser and speaker or headset capable of playing streaming audio.