Detection of cumulative trauma disorders of upper extremities in the workplace

Surveillance for musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremity in industry is in its infancy. Research efforts to elucidate the causal factors of these disorders often rely on either the analysis of existing medical records, worker compensation records (passive surveillance), or the surveying of workers with questionnaire and physical examination (active surveillance). The use of either type of data for routine surveillance presents several difficulties illustrated with the results presented in this paper. The analysis of existing records is generally less costly but the reliability of the data is difficult to assess. Standardized questionnaire and physical examinations can be as sensitive as the use of unusually thorough existing occupational medical records; however, it is unclear whether the additional cost of an active surveillance system will deter the routine use of such systems.