Work Related Upper Limb Disorders

WRULD, sometimes known as repetitive strain injury (although not always as the result of strain hence use of term WRULD).

They are problems with the shoulder and arm, including the forearm, elbow, wrist, hand and fingers. ULDs can include neck pain.

Any type of work that involves a worker using their arms to carry out tasks, can lead to ULDs. Computer use and assembly work are frequently associated with ULDs, but there are many other tasks that may have higher risks.

Symptoms include tenderness, aches and pain, stiffness, weakness, tingling, numbness, cramp, or swelling.

Risk factors include:

* Repeating an action
* Uncomfortable working position
* Using a lot of force
* Carrying out a task for a long period of time
* Poor working environment
* Psychosocial issues (lack of control or status)

In finding solutions it is important to recognise that people are different sizes, have different abilities and some have disabilities.

Reference