Identifying Movement Patterns and Severity of Associated Pain in Sign Language Interpreters

Our research sought to identify the most common movement patterns and postures performed by sign language interpreters and the frequency and severity of any pain that may be associated with the movements. A survey was developed and mailed to registered sign language interpreters throughout the state of Illinois. For each specific upper extremity movement pattern and posture the respondents were requested to rate the following on a Likert Scale: the frequency of the task in terms of number of hours of task performance, the frequency of pain associated with the movement pattern or posture in terms of numbers of times per week the pain is experienced with the movement pattern or posture and the perceived severity of the pain experienced. Results were analyzed for frequency of performed movements or postures, frequency of pain with specific movements or postures, and the severity of pain with each task. Recommendations, based on the results, focused on "signing" in a biomechanically correct manner as well as postural and stress reducing exercises programs. (Contains 3 tables and 7 figures.)