Comparison of two different methods for performing combination analysis of force and posture risk factors in an epidemiological study.

Objectives: This study aimed to introduce a method of simultaneous combination analysis of multiple exposure parameters for large epidemiological studies of work-related upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and compare this analysis method with the conventionally used job-level combination analysis method when applied in exposure-response analysis of work-related upper-extremity MSD.

Methods: Health outcome [carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)] and physical exposure (forceful exertion and hand/wrist postures) data for 733 subjects were obtained from the baseline period of a 3-year work-related upper-extremity MSD study. Determinations of CTS cases were done based on a set of defined criteria.

Inter-observer reliability of forceful exertion analysis based on video-recordings.

The objectives were to examine inter-observer reliability of job-level forceful exertion analyses and temporal agreement of detailed time study results. Three observers performed the analyses on 12 different jobs. Continuous duration, frequency and % time of lifting, pushing/pulling, power and pinch gripping exertions and estimated level of the exertions were obtained.

Interrater reliability of posture observations.

Objective: The aims of this research were (a) to study the interrater reliability of a posture observation method, (b) to test the impact of different posture categorization systems on interrater reliability, and (c) to provide guidelines for improving interrater reliability.

Background: Estimation of posture through observation is challenging. Previous studies have shown varying degrees of validity and reliability, providing little information about conditions necessary to achieve acceptable reliability.

Quantitative exposure-response relations between physical workload and prevalence of lateral epicondylitis in a working population.

Background: Lateral epicondylitis is a common work-related musculoskeletal disorder. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors associated with lateral epicondylitis among active workers.

Methods: Seven-hundred thirty-three workers in 12 Washington worksites participated in structured interviews, physical examinations, and individual exposure assessments of biomechanical and psychosocial factors.

Gender adjustment or stratification in discerning upper extremity musculoskeletal disorder risk?

Objectives: The aim was to explore whether "adjustment" for gender masks important exposure differences between men and women in a study of rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and work exposures.

Methods: This cross-sectional study of 733 subjects in 12 health care and manufacturing workplaces used detailed individual health and work exposure assessment methods. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to compare gender stratified and adjusted models.