Prevalence of shoulder pain and impingement syndrome in professional photographers.

Abstract

Background: Shoulder pain is the third most common musculoskeletal complaint in healthcare, with an annual incidence ranging from 0.9% to 2.5% and a point prevalence of 18-26%. Its diagnosis remains challenging, and treatments are often ineffective. Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is a frequent cause of shoulder pain, commonly linked to poor body posture and muscle imbalance. Professional photographers are frequently exposed to awkward postures and poor ergonomics over prolonged periods. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of shoulder pain and SIS among professional photographers.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among professional photographers from 34 studios in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 190 participants were recruited over three months (June–August 2023) using non-probability convenience sampling, considering various socio-demographic factors. Data were collected using the DASH questionnaire to assess disability, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to measure pain intensity, and the Hawkins-Kennedy test for shoulder impingement.

Results: The findings demonstrated a significant association between shoulder pain and SIS in professional photographers. According to VAS, 23 (12%) photographers reported no pain, 91 (48%) mild pain, 41 (22%) moderate pain, and 32 (17%) severe pain. The Hawkins-Kennedy test was positive in 54 (28%) and negative in 136 (72%) participants, showing an inverse correlation with DASH and VAS scores.

Conclusion: There is a positive correlation between shoulder pain and disability among professional photographers, primarily due to repetitive and prolonged shoulder abduction and elevation. These factors contribute to reduced work efficiency and musculoskeletal complications in this population.