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At least 109 records · Page 6Linked to original sources
PubMed1995

Computer mouse use and cumulative trauma disorders of the upper extremities.

The computer mouse is now present in virtually every office environment because of the recent adoption of the graphical user interface. However, Karlqvist et al. (1994) pointed out that there still remains a paucity of work on the musculoskeletal problems associated specifically with computer mouse use. Likewise, there have been no published data on the magnitude of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders associated with computer mouse use. In order to ascertain this magnitude, claims data from the Liberty Mutual Group were reviewed for the years 1986 to 1993, inclusive. Count, total cost and average cost per claim for all claims associated with computer use and computer mouse use were determined for the years in question. It was concluded that although there are few claims related to computer mouse use, it appears to be a growing problem, and therefore, perhaps, deserves more research and intervention attention. However, the present magnitude is less than for other musculoskeletal disorders.

Arm↗
PubMed1999

Repetitive strain injury (cumulative trauma disorder): causes and treatment.

BACKGROUND: The computerization of the workforce in the last two decades has led to increases in the incidence of repetitive strain injury (RSI). U.S. Workers Compensation claims made by persons disabled in the upper extremities in 1989 were estimated to be $563 million. METHOD: Through an investigation of factors that increase the likelihood of contracting an RSI in various industries, the authors suggest a relation between workplace conditions, lack of education about causes of RSI and improper use of equipment among contemporary workers. RESULTS: A medical term which analyzes the unique history and mechanism of the injury and offers a unique regimen of exercise, education, modalities and some pain management has proven to be the most effective treatment for RSI. Damage to muscle and tendon due to RSI generally cannot be surgically repaired. However, specific nerve-related disorders can be treated with surgery if other more conservative treatments prove ineffective. CONCLUSION: Through foresight and education, industries in which specific factors render workers more likely to contract RSI can begin to take steps to minimize worker susceptibility to the disorder. Those industries will face large losses due to Workers' Compensation claims, disability pay, lawsuits and ultimately lower productivity.

Computers↗
PubMed1997

Industrial rehabilitation medicine. 3. Case studies in upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders.

This self-directed learning module highlights new advances in this topic area. It is part of the chapter on industrial rehabilitation medicine in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This section contains three case studies discussing nerve, joint, and soft tissue pathology and work disability due to upper extremity pain. New areas of interest covered in this section include the controversy regarding the work causality of upper extremity disorders, a detailed review of the impact of upper quadrant postural dysfunction on symptom perpetuation, and the assessment and nonsurgical management of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Adult↗
PubMed1998

Preventing upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders. An approach to employee wellness.

1. Employee education and training about upper extremity anatomy/physiology, risk factors and intervention strategies, including ergonomics, may promote wellness and prevent injuries in the workplace. 2. It is important that nurses in the workplace be proactive in the development and implementation of injury prevention and education programs related to CTDs. 3. Reducing known risk factors and educating workers could have financial benefit for management and should result in healthier, happier employees.

Arm Injuries↗
PubMed1995

Detecting cumulative trauma disorders in workers performing repetitive tasks.

On-site testing of 157 poultry processors disclosed that 50% had three or more abnormal upper extremity findings out of a total of 22 possibles. The average worker had five to six abnormal findings. Impaired pinch strength, decreased vibration sensitivity in the fingertips, and reports of current numbness were the most prevalent. Of workers with signs, 25% reported no symptoms, whereas only 8% of workers reported symptoms but had no signs. The investigators concluded that this measurement method has utility for assessments of worker populations to determine prevalence of CTDs and, potentially, for preclinical detection of these disorders to permit early intervention, reduce medical costs, and minimize disability. The need for accurate measurement to enhance early detection and prevention is discussed.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Electromyographic biofeedback evaluation of a computer keyboard operator with cumulative trauma disorder.

This article describes a rehabilitation approach for a keyboard operator following radial tunnel decompression and release of the extensor origin of the right elbow. Prior to the patient's returning to work, a clinical electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback device was used to determine which work activities the patient should avoid or alter to reduce strain on her affected muscles. The patient was able to return to work and noticed a considerable reduction of muscle fatigue and pain in the involved muscles. A relatively inexpensive EMG biofeedback device was employed to evaluate the patient's muscles prior to returning to work. The rationale and suggestions for application of the biofeedback unit are discussed.

Biofeedback, Psychology↗
PubMed1992

Cumulative trauma disorders--an overview.

1. CTDs are a major problem in some industries. Evidence exists for an association between symptoms of CTDs and occupational risk factors such as forceful exertion, repetitiveness, vibration, cold, and extreme postures. 2. The efficacy of ergonomic interventions or programs in reducing CTDs must be evaluated using the same methods as those used to identify problems initially; user feedback regarding job or tool redesigns is essential. Implementing ergonomic interventions is an ongoing, iterative process. 3. The ability of the occupational health nurse to carry out basic nursing functions of health promotion and prevention of injury and illness will be enhanced through the application of the principles of ergonomics.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome↗
PubMed1994

Cumulative trauma disorders: developing a framework for prevention.

1. The mechanism of a special order by a regulatory agency is an effective tool to reduce workplace CTD injuries. 2. Occupational health nurses can make a major contribution to the health of workers in their companies by developing an ergonomic program to identify the scope of the problem and by providing early identification and conservative treatment. 3. A workplace prevention program for CTD injuries consists of job analysis, recordkeeping, and corrective measures including engineering controls, administrative controls, personal protective equipment, treatment, and training components. 4. The goals of any program to control CTD are to prevent injury and disability to the employee, control costs of such injury to the employee and company, and comply with OSHA regulations.

Cumulative Trauma Disorders↗
PubMed1997

Factors prolonging disability in work-related cumulative trauma disorders.

Workers' compensation costs for management of soft tissue disorders continue to increase. The complexity of medical management of these cases has increased due to social factors. The purpose of this study is to improve the physician's ability to recognize nonmedical issues that prevent a rapid return to employment. A classification system is presented that will allow the clinician to identify administrative and pyschosocial issues that prolong disability. Additionally, the patients' job demands were classified by known ergonomic risk factors. The system was applied retrospectively to 50 random cases referred to two occupational hand clinics over a 1-year period. The results indicated that the psychosocial classification of the patient and the current employment status are the most important factors in prolonging disability workers.

Adult↗
PubMed1997

Cumulative trauma disorders in the upper extremities: reliability of the postural and repetitive risk-factors index.

OBJECTIVE: This study addresses test-retest reliability of the Postural and Repetitive Risk-Factors Index (PRRI) for work-related upper body injuries. This assessment was developed by the present authors. DESIGN: A repeated measures design was used to assess the test-retest reliability of a videotaped work-site assessment of subjects' movements. SUBJECTS: Ten heavy users of video display terminals (VDTs) from a local banking industry participated in the study. SETTING: The 10 subjects' movements were videotaped for 2 hours on each of 2 separate days, while working on-site at their VDTs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The videotaped assessment, which utilized known postural risk factors for developing musculoskeletal disorder, pain, and discomfort in heavy VDT users (ie, repetitiveness, awkward and static postures, and contraction time), was called the PRRI. The videotaped movement assessments were subsequently analyzed in 15-minute sessions (five sessions per 2-hour videotape, which produced a total of 10 sessions over the 2 testing days), and each session was chosen randomly from the videotape. The subjects' movements were given a postural risk score according to the criteria in the PRRI. Each subject was therefore tested a total of 10 times (ie, 10 sessions), over two days. The maximum PRRI score for both sides of the body was 216 points. RESULTS: Reliability coefficients (RCs) for the PRRI scores were calculated, and the reliability of any one session met the minimum criterion for excellent reliability, which was .75. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed that there was no statistically significant difference between sessions (p < .05). Calculations using the standard error of measurement (SEM) indicated that an individual tested once, on one day and with a PRRI score of 25, required a change of at least 8 points in order to be confident that a true change in score had occurred. The significant results from the reliability tests indicated that the PRRI was a reliable measurement tool that could be used by occupational health practitioners on the job site.

Adult↗
PubMed1996

Cumulative trauma disorders.

The relationship between work activities and the diagnostic entities discussed in this article is poorly understood, but their development is probably multifactorial. The enormous cost to industry and society is driving many investigators to study the causes and pathologic manifestations of CTDs, and this research should lead to improved strategies for treating and preventing work-related injuries. Prevention, however, will work only if both management and labor participate in preventive efforts. When a task force approach can be implemented and senior management gives it the power to make effective changes, CTDs often can be reduced dramatically, as has been shown in numerous studies illustrating the success of this approach. It is unfortunate that many in senior management are reluctant to permit such task forces due to fear of increased injury claims. Our worry is that, in the end, the solution to problems believed to be associated with repetitive trauma at work may be shaped more by regulatory bodies and attorneys rather than scientists. Hand surgeons, who see patients with complaints that are perceived to be work related, often find themselves in the middle of this complicated problem, being asked to determine whether a patient's symptoms are caused by the performance of job tasks. To treat our patients with hand and wrist symptoms, we must stay abreast of the current understanding of CTDs and be familiar with the diagnosis and management of recognized disease entities such as those reviewed in this article. In most cases, a diagnosis of a specific clinical condition can be established that is based on strict criteria. If this is not possible and the picture is unclear, it is important not to guess at a diagnosis. Labeling a patient with a diagnosis such as thoracic outlet syndrome or nonspecific tendonitis without clear-cut and objective clinical signs can have lasting economic and employment consequences. For this reason, diagnosis of a specific clinical entity should be made only when the findings of the history, physical examination, and ancillary tests firmly support it.

Cumulative Trauma Disorders↗