[Musculoskeletal diseases among a group of geriatric residence workers]

A total of 274 workers of a geriatric residence underwent physical and anamnestic examination in order to ascertain the existence of diseases associated with occupational risks of manual handling of patients. Data on musculo-skeletal disorder of the spine and of the upper limbs were collected. The correlation between manual handling of patients and musculo-skeletal disorder in this worker population is consistent with those already reported in the literature. Data was compared with prevalence estimates of musculo-skeletal disorder in worker population not exposed. This comparison showed significant increase of scapulo-humeral periarthritis in female over 35 years of age. In conclusion, this duty is a specific risk for the upper limbs; therefore more risk evaluation studies are needed. Also, a check for these types of disorders should be included in all duty specific medical exam protocols.