Workers' compensation experiences of computer users with musculoskeletal disorders.
BACKGROUND
Computer-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are of concern as computer use continues to increase. While MSDs are among the most disabling conditions in the United States, the workers' compensation (WC) experiences of individuals with these occupational disorders are not well described.


METHODS
We conducted a study among 149 adults with work-related MSDs of the neck, upper back, or upper extremity related to computer use. Questionnaires were used to obtain information on subjective experiences with WC and economic issues.


RESULTS
Seventy-four percent filed for WC. Twenty-five percent of all participants reported major financial difficulties after developing their MSD, though the majority filed for WC. Despite filing for WC, a large proportion relied partially on government, employer, or personal financial sources. Sixty-two percent reported that overall satisfaction with the WC insurer was poor.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings indicate that a majority of participants filed for WC. Despite filing for WC financial difficulties after developing their MSD were considerable.
Fang
Shona
S
Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. sfang@hsph.harvard.edu
Dropkin
Jonathan
J
Herbert
Robin
R
Triola
Dushana
D
Landsbergis
Paul
P
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003201:Computers; D005260:Female; D005382:Financing, Personal; D006801:Humans; D007182:Income; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D014942:Workers' Compensation / Q000191:economics*