Drawbacks of clinical diagnoses in epidemiologic research on work-related musculoskeletal morbidity

Register data on musculoskeletal morbidity in various occupational groups are difficult to use in evaluating possible effects of work because of the inexactness of the definition of the clinical diagnoses and their use in ordinary medical practice. A more precise classification of disorders and ailments would provide a better possibility to establish those relations between work and disease which to exist. Internationally recommended methods for epidemiologic research on occupational musculoskeletal disorders are needed.