Hip joint arthrosis: an occupational disorder among farmers

Observations among Swedish farmers indicate that coxarthrosis is a common disorder in farming populations. In this case-referent study, we describe relationships between farming and hip joint arthrosis. The case-group consisted of 105 persons who have had surgery because of coxarthrosis and the referents consisted of 222 randomly selected persons. Non-responders totaled 9%. Farming was significantly more common in the case group. The ratio varied between 2.1 and 3.2, varying with the length of time in farming. Longer exposure did not seem to result in greater risk. There was no risk elevation related to forestry or transportation work. Nor was there any over-representation of accidents with injuries to the lower extremities in the case group. Heavy work load did not seem to be related to the genesis of coxarthrosis. Farming is an amalgamation of different types of work. However, we develop the hypothesis from this study that tractor driving may be related to hip arthrosis. Unfavorable angles in the hip joints may occur during tractor driving. Other studies support this hypothesis, as it has been found that unsuitable conditions for the hip joints may be related to arthrosis.