Natural history of upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and resulting work limitations over 3 years in a newly hired working population.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the proportions of workers with upper extremity (UE) symptoms and work limitations because of symptoms in a newly hired working population over a 3-year study period and to describe transitions between various outcome states.


METHODS
A total of 827 subjects completed repeat self-reported questionnaires including demographics, medical and work history, symptoms, and work status. Outcomes of interest were UE symptoms and work limitations because of symptoms.


RESULTS
Up to 72% of workers reported symptoms at least once during the study, with 12% reporting persistent symptoms and 27% reporting fluctuating symptoms; 31% reported work limitations at least once, with 3% reporting consistent work limitations and 8% reporting fluctuating limitations.


CONCLUSIONS
UE symptoms and work limitations are common among workers and dynamic in their course. A better understanding of the natural course of symptoms is necessary for targeted interventions.
From the Department of General Medical Sciences (Drs Gardner, Dale, and Evanoff), Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Mo; and Occupational Health Unit (Dr Descatha), the Inserm U1018-AP-HP, Garches, France.
Bethany T
BT
Gardner
Ann Marie
AM
Dale
Alexis
A
Descatha
Bradley
B
Evanoff
D000328:Adult; D002349:Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / Q000453:epidemiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D016272:Occupational Health; D034941:Upper Extremity; D055815:Young Adult