Functional assessment of repetitive strain injuries: two case studies

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Ergonomics
• Rehabilitation science

Background:

• Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are increasingly prevalent in Hong Kong's occupational therapy clinics.
• Identifying job-related risk factors is crucial for preventing and managing work-related RSIs.
• Traditional jobsite assessment methods face employer approval barriers in Hong Kong.

Observation:

• A self-assessment approach using the Work Evaluation Systems Technology (WEST) Tool Sort and LLUMC Activity Sort was implemented.
• Questionnaires were translated into Chinese and validated by ten occupational therapists.
• Case studies demonstrated the application of this self-report instrument in occupational therapy.

Findings:

• The self-assessment tools proved efficient and effective in evaluating clients' work capabilities.
• The instruments helped clients understand the link between their working conditions and RSIs.
• This method facilitates planning rehabilitation programs for workers with RSIs.

Implications:

• Self-administered questionnaires offer a viable alternative for assessing work-related RSIs when direct jobsite evaluations are restricted.
• This approach empowers patients by enhancing their understanding of workplace-related health issues.
• The findings support the integration of validated self-assessment tools into occupational therapy practices for RSI management in Hong Kong.