Artificial Intelligence, Nursing, and Musculoskeletal Disorders: A New Global Health Challenge

Abstract

Nurses are at the heart of healthcare systems, yet their own health remains inadequately protected. Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs), particularly lower back, neck, and upper limb pain, are especially common in this profession, which involves patient transfers, awkward postures, repetitive movements, and physically demanding work [1, 2]. Recent international data confirm that MSDs are a global problem among nurses, with significant variations across regions and professional contexts [3-5]. This issue takes on particular significance in the context of a global nursing shortage. This issue takes on particular significance in the context of a global transformation of the healthcare workforce. According to the *State of the World’s Nursing 2025* report, the global nursing workforce has grown from 27.9 million in 2018 to 29.8 million in 2023. Despite this increase, the global shortage is still estimated at 5.8 million nurses in 2023, with significant disparities between countries and regions [6]. The health, safety, and ability of nurses to remain in the workforce must therefore be considered integral components of the resilience of health systems and universal health coverage [6, 7].

Citation

Philippe Gorce. Artificial Intelligence, Nursing, and Musculoskeletal Disorders: A New Global Health Challenge. WebLog J Nurs. wjnr.2026. i1901. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23105549