Criteria document for evaluating the work-relatedness of upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders

Today, there is growing concern in Europe and elsewhere both about the effects of work-related upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (WRUEMSD) on the health and well-being of workers and about the economic and social impact of these conditions. Musculoskeletal disorders, in general, are considered a major cause of sickness absence, disability, and health care, and many studies have found high prevalences of musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders in a wide range of occupational groups. The underlying purpose of this document is the prevention of WRUEMSD. Such prevention can take different forms (primary, secondary, and tertiary), occur at different levels [in the clinical setting (the micro level), in the workplace (the meso level), at the national level (the macro level)], and involve many types of activities. Information is the foundation upon which these prevention activities rely. This document seeks to facilitate a more uniform collection, recording, and reporting of information about WRUEMSD in the European Union (EU) by providing evidence- or consensus-based case definitions and criteria for identifying and classifying them. The document is designed primarily for occupational health physicians who provide care for individual workers with health problems and who provide occupational health services to workers and employers in different companies. However, it may also be useful to other providers, including occupational health nurses, general practice and primary care physicians, physiotherapists, and ergonomists.