[Static changes of the spine in workers in the automobile industry]

In 13 year period of time 28.324 x-ray examinations of spine performed in workers of Jelcz's car-factory revealed a high percentage (22.5%) of vertebral epiphysitis (Scheuermann's Disease) and scolioses (9.95%) among adolescents aged 17-21 years applying for work in the factory. The statistical analysis of this material has shown that vertebral epiphysitis passed by persons at the age below 40 years has contributed to static changes in spine more significantly than the character of work performed. The greatest number of scolioses among workers aged over 40 years was noted in: tinsmiths, pressers and welders--i.e. the jobs exposing the spine to the highest loads. In those professional groups periodical examinations are recommended to detect early symptoms of scolioses.