Musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremities: the use of epidemiologic approaches in industrial settings.

This article illustrates the use of a simple questionnaire in identifying those sections of a work force at risk for musculoskeletal disorders and chronic discomfort of the upper extremities. Two research studies are described. The first, conducted in a chicken-processing factory, illustrates the use of self-administered questionnaires in the assessment of the musculoskeletal health of the work force and in the identification of groups of workers who may be at increased risk and for whom ergonomic reappraisal of the tasks performed may be beneficial. A second study of retail trade staff suggests that chronic musculoskeletal discomfort is widespread. The article further considers the importance of such data for those persons concerned with the allocation of health care. The need to consider the broader spectrum of musculoskeletal health from discomfort to clinical disorder is stressed.