The Association Between Forceful Hand Exertions and Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Neck and Shoulder

Abstract

The aim of this study was to estimate associations between biomechanical exposures and workplace neck and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders (NSMSDs) in a prospective cohort. Methods: Manufacturing workers (N = 349) were followed for 28 months. Biomechanical exposures were collected on each individual, and physical examinations were performed every 4 months. Prevalent cases at baseline (n = 30) were excluded from the analysis. Results: There were 18 incident cases of NSMSDs. Greater than 33% time in forceful hand exertion doubled the rate of incident NSMSDs. Greater than 18 degrees of shoulder abduction, during forceful hand exertion, increased the rate by 55%. Confidence intervals were wide. Conclusions: Effect estimates of the relationship between forceful hand exertions and NSMSDs were consistently elevated whether measured in isolation or while in shoulder abduction. Following a larger cohort with more frequent physical examinations would improve estimates of the model.