Work, a prognosis factor for upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders?

To determine if occupational factors were associated with the outcome in workers with UEMS symptoms or disorders, we used data from the repetitive task survey performed in 1993 1994 and again in 1996 1997. The design has been described in earlier publications. , – – [8 Each worker had a standardized medical examination at baseline and again in 1996 1997. The self-administered questionnaire filled out 9] – at baseline included personal variables, a psychological variable, postures and biomechanical constraints at work (self-assessed, but checked with the occupational physician), psychosocial work factors, and baseline severity of the disorders. Workers were also asked in 1996 1997 about changes in work tasks in the three year follow-up period. –