Whether you call them work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs), cumulative trauma disorders (CTDS), or occupational overuse syndromes (OOSs), these conditions are a cause of pain, disability and suffering to workers worldwide. These designations often imply that their causes are related to work, but the supporting evidence can be unclear. Transparency is important, especially when it is necessary to form a connection with work factors to obtain treatment or compensation. This book addresses the dilemma. Written by a professional ergonomist with almost 40 years of experience in workplace ergonomics, this book combines a critical summary and assessment of the epidemiological literature with an exploration of the scientific and medical evidence for possible causal mechanisms to develop well-informed conclusions on causation of a number of common musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb and intervertebral disc injury. Although much of the book focuses on physical factors, the role of psychosocial factors is increasingly being recognized and an additional chapter reviews a number of the current theories relating to this important issue. Features Focuses on a clear and authoritative account of the evidence for the role of work in the causation of commonly occurring ULDs and disc injury Provides an up-to-date compilation of the scientific evidence, devoid of views based on assumptions or prejudice Presents a clear explanation of the most likely causal mechanisms for common ULDs and disc injuries Includes a summary of theories concerning the role played by psychosocial factors Outlines the statistical evidence in a clear and understandable manner Bridges the gap between the evidence-base in the scientific and medical research literature and the practitioner

This comprehensive resource provides a strong medical, ergonomic, and industrial foundation for understanding and managing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in business and industry. Addressing multiple perspectives - including the individual worker, insurance companies, regulatory agencies, industry, and the medical community, this practical text provides an integrated approach to understanding and management of these conditions. Well-referenced and highly organized, it follows a logical progression that moves from presenting a broad background on the historical and present day phenomena of MSDs, to explanation of the multiple risk factors involved with MSDs, including physiologic, biomechanical, and psychosocial factors. A strong physiologic, biomechanical, and psychological basis for understanding work-related MSDs is provided. A thorough review of medical conditions associated with work-related MSDs is included because they directly affect analysis, assessment, and treatment of MSDs. Actual work-related MSD programs for high-risk industries and populations are presented. A sophisticated outcome assessment model for work-related MSDs provides a practical approach for therapists to use when assessing patients. Content is well organized, beginning with a discussion of the various professional perspectives of those involved with treating work-related MSDs, then addressing the medical diagnosis and treatment, the ergonomic analysis and intervention, and cost-benefit analyses. Extensive referencing throughout provides an evidence-based approach for analysis and treatment of work-related MSDs. A comprehensive discussion is included on the risk factors that contribute to work-related MSDs. A panel of highly recognizable contributors provides expertise so readers can get first hand knowledge from the pros. Content covers home and leisure as well as work-related MSDs to help readers understand how to treat special situations, such as geriatrics, children, and the home. The structure of the book is set up in a logical and easy-to-read manner that offers a client-centered approach as well as a systems perspective on the management of MSDs using a variety of modalities. Each chapter has been completely updated with extensive references to the history of work, latest research on biomechanical and psychosocial risk factors for MSDs, latest ergonomic assessment tools (including EMGs), treatment of MSDs, and regulatory information. Several groundbreaking chapters have been added - The Expanded Definition of Ergonomics, Joint-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders, Ergonomics of Caring for Children, Ergonomics in the Home, and Management of the Older Worker.

Every year workers' low-back, hand, and arm problems lead to time away from jobs and reduce the nation's economic productivity. The connection of these problems to workplace activities-from carrying boxes to lifting patients to pounding computer keyboards-is the subject of major disagreements among workers, employers, advocacy groups, and researchers. Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace examines the scientific basis for connecting musculoskeletal disorders with the workplace, considering people, job tasks, and work environments. A multidisciplinary panel draws conclusions about the likelihood of causal links and the effectiveness of various intervention strategies. The panel also offers recommendations for what actions can be considered on the basis of current information and for closing information gaps. This book presents the latest information on the prevalence, incidence, and costs of musculoskeletal disorders and identifies factors that influence injury reporting. It reviews the broad scope of evidence: epidemiological studies of physical and psychosocial variables, basic biology, biomechanics, and physical and behavioral responses to stress. Given the magnitude of the problem-approximately 1 million people miss some work each year-and the current trends in workplace practices, this volume will be a must for advocates for workplace health, policy makers, employers, employees, medical professionals, engineers, lawyers, and labor officials.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) refer to a wide range of inflammatory and degenerative conditions that occur in the workplace or are caused by work activities. WRMSDs affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, peripheral nerves, and supporting blood vessels. These conditions can cause pain and functional impairment and they often result in direct economic costs to both the workplace and the worker. Injuries sustained at work can negatively affect a person's physical and mental health as well as a company's bottom line. This book describes the human musculoskeletal system, including such topics as anthropometry and posture, as it relates to accidents and injuries in the workplace. Chapters discuss such subjects as job standards; risk assessment; direct and indirect costs of WRMSDs; epidemiology, etiology, and pathology of WRMSDs; engineering and administrative controls; risk factor identification; injury management; and education and training. It presents a holistic approach to identifying, intervening, and preventing WRMSDs.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common work-related problem in Europe - 25% of the EU-27 workers report suffering from backache and 23% complain about muscular pains. First, there are preventive steps that have to be taken. But for workers who already have MSDs, the challenge is to maintain their employability, keep them working and, if necessary, reintegrate them into the workplace. The aim of this report is to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions at the workplace and to provide practical examples with respect to successful prevention of MSDs. It focuses mainly on the developments that have taken place since the previous European MSDs Campaign in 2000.

Whether you call them work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs), cumulative trauma disorders (CTDS), or occupational overuse syndromes (OOSs), these conditions are a cause of pain, disability and suffering to workers worldwide. These designations often imply that their causes are related to work, but the supporting evidence can be unclear. Transparency is important, especially when it is necessary to form a connection with work factors to obtain treatment or compensation. This book addresses the dilemma. Written by a professional ergonomist with almost 40 years of experience in workplace ergonomics, this book combines a critical summary and assessment of the epidemiological literature with an exploration of the scientific and medical evidence for possible causal mechanisms to develop well-informed conclusions on causation of a number of common musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb and intervertebral disc injury. Although much of the book focuses on physical factors, the role of psychosocial factors is increasingly being recognized and an additional chapter reviews a number of the current theories relating to this important issue. Features Focuses on a clear and authoritative account of the evidence for the role of work in the causation of commonly occurring ULDs and disc injury Provides an up-to-date compilation of the scientific evidence, devoid of views based on assumptions or prejudice Presents a clear explanation of the most likely causal mechanisms for common ULDs and disc injuries Includes a summary of theories concerning the role played by psychosocial factors Outlines the statistical evidence in a clear and understandable manner Bridges the gap between the evidence-base in the scientific and medical research literature and the practitioner