RESUMO
Occupation-related musculoskeletal disorders are a common clinical problem. Management presents challenges in understanding the factors that give rise to work loss and disability. To improve outcomes, practitioners need to screen for risk factors, understand the demands of work and workplaces and be prepared to actively assist the process of work return. There are limitations with regard to many therapeutic modalities commonly used, though there are many useful adjuncts for the physician in achieving improved outcomes.
Assuntos
Doenças Musculoesqueléticas/epidemiologia , Doenças Musculoesqueléticas/terapia , Doenças Profissionais/epidemiologia , Doenças Profissionais/terapia , Humanos , Doenças Musculoesqueléticas/reabilitação , Doenças Profissionais/reabilitação , Fatores de RiscoRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Work related upper limb disorders (WRULDs) are among the most common workers' compensation claims. Their management is a challenge for medical practitioners for a range of reasons. OBJECTIVE: This article describes the common WRULDs and summarises current management strategies. DISCUSSION: The identification and management of WRULDs is complicated by diagnostic, aetiological and therapeutic uncertainties. The workers' compensation system further complicates the issue. Despite this, there are useful strategies that medical practitioners can employ to assist patients with upper limb pain in the work environment to alleviate distress, minimise disability and maximise function.