Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation in Reducing Pain and Improving Quality of Life and Job Satisfaction Among Cardiac Sonographers with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Cardiac sonographers have increased risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) owing to their physically demanding work. Telerehabilitation offers a promising, accessible approach for managing WRMDs; however, evidence specific to this population remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-week telerehabilitation program for musculoskeletal pain, health-related quality of life, and job satisfaction among cardiac sonographers. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, cardiac sonographers with WRMDs were assigned to the telerehabilitation intervention or control group. Pain intensity (measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale), quality of life (assessed using the SF-36), and job satisfaction were evaluated at baseline and post-intervention. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess differences in between-group changes over time. Results: Thirty-two cardiac sonographers completed the study (16 per group; mean age: 28.53 ± 4.31 years; 93.75% female). The intervention group showed significantly reduced pain intensity (β = −2.0; 95% CI: −3.67, −0.33; p = 0.019) and improved job satisfaction (β = 15.93; 95% CI: 3.47–28.40; p = 0.012) compared to controls. SF-36 subscale analysis showed significantly improved bodily pain (BP) in the intervention group (β = 12.81; 95% CI: 1.50–24.12; p = 0.026) and decreased social functioning (SF) (β = −11.72; 95% CI: −20.61, −2.83; p = 0.010); no significant between-group differences were observed for physical functioning, role physical, role emotional, vitality, general health, or mental health. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that telerehabilitation can effectively reduce musculoskeletal pain and enhance job satisfaction among cardiac sonographers. Although BP improved, SF declined. These findings support integrating telerehabilitation into occupational health programs, with future research needed on long-term benefits and psychosocial outcomes.