The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, held the third edition of its Grand Round on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, with the theme: “Reducing the Burden of Low Back Pain Among Healthcare Workers.” The well-attended event held at the institution’s mini auditorium, brought together healthcare professionals across clinical and non-clinical cadres, as well as members of the OAU community, for a day of insightful engagement.
In his opening remarks, the Chief Medical Director, Professor John Okeniyi, welcomed participants and commended the organising team. He emphasised the relevance of the Grand Round as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the addressing of urgent healthcare issues. He noted that various factors affect the well-being of healthcare workers—many of which could be managed through regular exercise and the prioritisation of personal health. He urged all participants to make a conscious effort to place their health above all else.
The session featured expert presentations from two distinguished speakers: Professor Michael Egwu, a Consultant in Orthopaedics and Manipulative Physiotherapy from the Department of Medical Rehabilitation, OAUTHC, and Dr Ayooluwa Omoniyi, a Consultant in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, OAUTHC.
Dr Omoniyi discussed the increasing incidence of low back pain among healthcare workers, attributing it to prolonged standing, poor posture during clinical duties, and a general lack of ergonomic awareness. He proposed practical workplace interventions and preventive strategies, including the McKenzie therapeutic approach for managing and alleviating symptoms.
Professor Egwu emphasised the importance of regular physiotherapeutic practices and rehabilitation programmes tailored to the specific demands of healthcare professionals. He advocated for institutional policies that promote wellness and preventive care to safeguard staff well-being and maintain productivity.
Contributing to the discourse, Professor Ayodele Orimolade, Head of the Department of Orthopaedics, shared valuable insights and stressed the need for interdepartmental collaboration in addressing musculoskeletal challenges within the workplace. He also pledged the department’s continued support for education and advocacy initiatives.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the guest speakers in recognition of their impactful contributions.
The Grand Round series continues to serve as a cornerstone of medical excellence and clinical innovation at OAUTHC, fostering dialogue, research, and practical solutions to pressing healthcare challenges.
