Work-related cumulative trauma disorders of the upper extremity

JAMA. 1992 Feb 12;267(6):838-42.

Abstract

Cumulative trauma disorders due to performance of repetitive tasks account for more than 50% of all occupational illnesses in the United States today. Employees affected by these disorders frequently experience substantial pain and functional impairment that may require a change in occupation. For the employer, these injuries result in loss of productivity and increased costs in the form of higher medical expenses and disability payments for injured workers. Successful treatment of work-related repetitive tissue injuries depends on early diagnosis and appropriate therapy. Prevention requires identifying sites and tasks that place employees at risk of injury and supporting efforts to develop safer work environments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arm
  • Chronic Disease
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders / etiology*
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Nerve Compression Syndromes
  • Occupational Diseases / etiology*
  • Tendinopathy / etiology
  • Tenosynovitis / etiology
  • Vibration / adverse effects