Difference in occupational health among physiotherapists: A descriptive cross-sectional survey

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are highly prevalent among healthcare professionals, with physiotherapists (PTs) at particular risk due to repetitive manual tasks, awkward postures, and heavy lifting. Although numerous studies report elevated WMSD rates, few have examined how psychosocial factors—namely burnout and job satisfaction—interact with physical activity levels and musculoskeletal health in Turkey. This cross-sectional survey aimed to investigate these interrelationships among Turkish PTs. Between August and December 2024, 162 PTs employed in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers completed an online questionnaire comprising the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ-E), Short Index of Job Satisfaction (SIJS), Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression were performed. The most frequently reported pain sites were the neck (74.1 %), lower back (73.5 %), and shoulders (58.6%). No burnout symptoms were observed, alongside relatively high job satisfaction. Pearson's correlation revealed significant negative associations between job satisfaction and both core burnout (r = –0.268, p < .001) and secondary burnout (r = –0.166, p = .034), as well as with total WMSD regions (r = –0.259, p < .001). In regression analysis, secondary burnout symptoms emerged as a strong predictor of musculoskeletal complaints (F = 13.073, p < .001). No significant relationships were found between physical activity levels and burnout, job satisfaction, or WMSDs. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of occupational health among PTs. Interventions should address both psychological stressors and ergonomic risks to enhance well-being and reduce WMSD burden in this workforce.