A Survey of Personal Health Habits, Wellness, and Burnout in Practicing Orthopaedic Surgeons-Are We Taking Care of Ourselves?

Introduction: The personality traits of those who become orthopaedic surgeons may also lead to overwork, work-life balance issues, and burnout. Health and wellness practices of orthopaedic surgeons have not been widely explored. This study evaluated the personal health habits, wellness, and burnout of practicing orthopaedic surgeons in the United States.

Methods: An anonymous self-assessment survey was completed by 234 practicing orthopaedic surgeon alumni from two large residency programs. The survey assessed exercise habits according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations, compliance with preventive medical care practices according to the United States Preventive Services Task Force, prioritization of occupational wellness strategies, and the presence of burnout via an adapted Maslach Burnout Inventory. Survey responders' mean age was 52 years, 88% were male, and 93% had a body mass index <30 kg/m2. Surgeons were stratified according to practice type, years in practice, and subspecialty.

Results: Among orthopaedic surgeons, compliance with aerobic and strength exercise recommendations was 31%. Surgeons in academic practice were significantly (P = 0.007) less compliant with exercise recommendations (18%) compared with private (34%) or employed (43%) practicing surgeons. Most (71%) had seen their primary care provider within 2 years and were up to date on age-appropriate health care screening including a cholesterol check within 5 years (79%), colonoscopy (89%), and mammogram (92%). Protecting time away from work for family/friends and finding meaning in work were the most important wellness strategies. The overall burnout rate was 15% and remained not significantly different (P > 0.3) regardless of years in practice, practice type, or subspecialty.

Conclusion: This survey study identifies practicing orthopaedic surgeons' health habits and wellness strategies, including limited compliance with aerobic and strength exercise recommendations. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of areas of diminished personal wellness to improve quality of life and avoid burnout.