Physical demands and injuries to the upper extremity associated with the space program.
Hand and upper-extremity overuse and repetitive injuries in astronauts have been and continue to be a common problem in the space program. The demands on upper-extremity use in the astronaut training program, the zero-gravity environment, the extreme temperature conditions of space, the effects of space travel on human physiology/anatomy, and the constraints and pressures of space suits and gloves all can negatively impact upper-extremity function in ways that can result in overuse/repetitive injuries. Future plans for space exploration include endeavors that will continue and even increase the demands on the hand and upper extremity.
Viegas
Steven F
SF
Division of Hand Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, Galveston, TX, USA.
Williams
David
D
Jones
Jeffrey
J
Strauss
Samuel
S
Clark
Jonathan
J
D018480:Astronauts; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009260:Nail Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology*; D019442:Space Suits; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000293:injuries* / Q000503:physiopathology*