Summary
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are very common amongst healthcare workers, and there
is evidence that anaesthetists are at greater risk of upper limb disorders than other groups. This
guidance aims to bring together advice and recommendations from a variety of sources in order
to inform and support anaesthetists at work, in an attempt to reduce the prevalence and severity of
work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the exacerbation of pre-existing disorders. Mechanical
and psychosocial risk factors for work-associated musculoskeletal disorders are summarised, along
with general principles for achieving better musculoskeletal health and practices specific to areas of
the body most at risk. These include recommended exercises and stretches during sedentary work.