Endoscopy‐related musculoskeletal injuries are often recognized in diagnostic and interventional endocopists, due to repetitive work, prolonged postures and the application of localised high forces. To reduce risk for injuries muscular overuse should be consequently avoided. No data exist on changes in muscular strength throughout the working day. Aim of the study was to determine the effect of muscular fatigue in endoscopist working at high volume centers.

Muscular strength was measured in endoscopists (n=9; m/f), working in different high volume centers (n=3), by repetitive force measurement using a medical dynamometer, over 7 working days. Individual strength of both arms (r;l) was documented before and after examinations throughout working day (lb). Difference in muscular strength was analysed. Muscular complaints, affected bodyparts, perceived exertion were recorded

Muscular force decreased significantly in all subjects, regardless sex, type of performed examinations ( mean 113.1±7.8 vs. 98.4±9.9). Longer and complex examinations decreased the muscular strength more significantly than shorter ones. ERCP revealed highest decrease in muscular force among participants. Muscular complaints of participants revealed worsening within the working day.

Data from this study reveal that repetitive endoscopic performance is associated with relevant decrease of muscular strength. This implicates that regular breaks are mandatory for muscular recovery to avoid injuries in endoscopists.