[Arthrosis of the distal radio-ulnar joint in workers using motorised saws (author's transl)]

Vibration-induced changes in the distal radio-ulnar joint were analysed by comparing workers using motorised saws (978 cases) and a control group. The following are the essential findings: 1. Exposure to vibration causes characteristic changes in the distal radio-ulnar joint, particularly on the left, consisting of osteophytosis, deformity and cystic rarefaction. 2. The frequency of the arthrosis is related in a statistically significant manner to a) length of exposure, b) age. 3. The subjective complaints of numbness, weakness and pain can, to some extent, be related to the radio-ulnar arthrosis. 4. Vibration is not the only factor in the genesis of the degenerative process of the distal radio-ulnar joint; ordinary use and stress can cause similar changes, although to a much less marked extent. The aetiological role of local vibration as a factor in causing the arthrosis has been confirmed.