The One-Minute Triple Stretch Reduces Musculoskeletal Discomfort in Endoscopic Assistants: A Crossover Trial With Motion Analysis.

Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among endoscopic assistants are a major occupational concern. While ergonomic interventions such as education and microbreaks have reduced MSDs in surgical settings, few studies have focused specifically on endoscopic assistants. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a brief stretching protocol, the one-minute triple stretch (OMTS), in reducing MSD symptoms and improving posture.

Methods: This crossover study of 10 endoscopic assistants from two hospitals used a repeated measures quasi-experimental design. Participants were alternately assigned to a control group (standard procedures) or intervention group (OMTS every 20 min). Musculoskeletal discomfort was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale. Work performance was evaluated via two standardized scales, and posture was analyzed using a motion tracking system. Data were collected at baseline, mid-, and postprocedure.

Results: The OMTS significantly reduced left shoulder discomfort at 120 min (p = 0.02, Hedges' g = -0.79), exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID = 1.5). Moderate, nonsignificant effects were observed in the neck and lower back. Neck flexion posture improved significantly in the OMTS group (p = 0.03, g = -0.54), exceeding the MCID (2.9°).

Conclusion: The OMTS appears to be a feasible ergonomic intervention that can reduce MSD symptoms in endoscopic assistants. Further multicenter studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Trial registration: The study was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (Registration Number: UMIN000048799) on August 31, 2022.