Is ophthalmology a pain-free career? A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal pain among ophthalmologists.

Harrison Watt; Ali Salimi; Mohammad Karam; Maya Alik; Abdelrahman Abu Osba; Syed Ahmad; Rishi Gupta; Hady Saheb

doi:10.1016/j.jcjo.2026.05.021

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Is ophthalmology a pain-free career? A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal pain among ophthalmologists.

Harrison Watt·Ali Salimi·Mohammad Karam·Maya Alik·Abdelrahman Abu Osba·Syed Ahmad·Rishi Gupta·Hady Saheb

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the pooled prevalence, anatomical distribution, and occupational impact of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among ophthalmologists, and to identify modifiable ergonomic risk factors. DESIGN: A systematic review and meta-analysis of published data. The protocol was preregistered (PROSPERO CRD42023422368) and reported in accordance with PRISMA. PARTICIPANTS: The participants were 6691 ophthalmologists from 21 studies. METHODS: Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed) were searched for peer-reviewed quantitative studies reporting MSK pain prevalence in ophthalmologists. Pooled estimates with 95% CI were calculated using random-effects models; heterogeneity was quantified using I². MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of overall and site-specific MSK pain; effects on workload and productivity; prevalence of treatment or mitigation strategies. RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of any MSK pain was 70% (95% CI: 65%-75%; I² = 92%); neck (41%; 95% CI: 35%-47%; I² = 95%), lower back (36%; 95% CI: 32%-39%; I² = 87%), and shoulder pain (28%; 95% CI: 22%-35%; I² = 91%) were most common. Pain led to workload modification in up to 44% and contributed to reduced clinical volume, sick leave, or contemplation of early retirement. Forty-six percent (95% CI: 22%-71%) pursued no treatment; 39% (95% CI: 30%-49%) used medical therapy; and 29% (95% CI: 20%-41%) sought physiotherapy. Heterogeneity was high across studies, reflecting differing case definitions and self-reported measures. CONCLUSIONS: MSK pain affects most ophthalmologists, particularly in the cervical and lumbar regions and frequently alters practice patterns. These findings underscore the need for early ergonomic training, structured micro-breaks, and workspace redesign. Prospective intervention trials are required to establish causality and quantify benefit.

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Humans Occupational Diseases Musculoskeletal Pain Prevalence Ophthalmologists Risk Factors Ophthalmology Ergonomics Journal Article Systematic Review Meta-Analysis

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Harrison Watt, Ali Salimi, Mohammad Karam, Maya Alik, Abdelrahman Abu Osba, Syed Ahmad, Rishi Gupta, Hady Saheb. 2026-06-27. Is ophthalmology a pain-free career? A systematic review and meta-analysis of musculoskeletal pain among ophthalmologists.. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjo.2026.05.021

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