Occupational Therapists Whose Primary Area of Practice Is Hand TherapySelf-Reported Cumulative Trauma Disorders

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Ergonomics
• Musculoskeletal disorders

Background:

• Hand therapists perform physically demanding tasks.
• These tasks involve movements and postures linked to cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs).
• The prevalence of CTDs among hand therapists is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence, prevalence, and types of work-related CTDs.
• Focus on hand, wrist, and elbow conditions experienced by hand therapists.
• Identify hand therapy as a potential high-risk occupation for CTDs.

Main Methods:

• A national random sample of 289 occupational therapists was surveyed.
• 227 occupational therapists responded to the survey.
• Data collected on upper-extremity injuries and syndromes, differentiating work-related causes.

Main Results:

• 165 out of 227 respondents (79%) reported 328 upper-extremity injuries/syndromes.
• 62% of these reported injuries were attributed to cumulative work trauma.
• Hand therapy is identified as an occupation with a high incidence of CTDs.

Conclusions:

• Cumulative trauma disorders are prevalent among hand therapists.
• Occupational risks associated with hand therapy practices are significant.
• Increased therapist awareness of risks and limitations is vital for preventing CTDs.