Upper Extremity Conditions in Computer Users

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Upper Extremity Conditions in Computer Users

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that in 1997, 92 million American adults used a computer, 37% of all households had a computer, and half of employed adults worked on a computer on the job.

Over 20 epidemiological studies have evaluated upper-extremity musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) and disorders (MSD) in computer users, yet virtually none have been long-term, follow-up studies.
To determine the incidence of MSS and MSD in workplace computer use, 632 recently hired employees who used computers at least 15 hours per week were asked to complete diaries on hours worked, hours spent on the computer, and presence of MSS in the neck/shoulder or hands/arms for up to three years. Those with MSS requiring medication or scoring at least six out of 10 on a visual analog scale were considered positive MSS cases, and were then evaluated for possible MSD.
Results: Over 50% of subjects suffered from MSS in the first year at the new job. One hundred eighty-three subjects had new onset of neck or shoulder MSS; 141 subjects had new onset of MSS in the arms or hands. The most common hand disorder was deQuervain's (tenosynovitis of the wrist and thumb), whereas carpal tunnel syndrome was one of the least likely disorders (only 1% prevalence). Somatic pain syndrome was the most common neck/shoulder disorder, reported in 111 participants. Women and those over age 30 were most likely to exhibit MSS.
The authors warn that a comparison group of other office workers not using computers would be required to determine if computer use is the factor that increases the risk for MSS at the workplace.
Gerr F, Marcus M, Ensor C, et al. A prospective study of computer users: I. Study design and incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders. American Journal of Industrial Medicine 2002:41(4), pp. 221-235.