The burden and determinants of neck pain in workers: results of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders.

Study design Systematic review and best evidence synthesis. Objectives To describe the prevalence and incidence of neck pain and disability in workers; to identify risk factors for neck pain in workers; to propose an etiological diagram; and to make recommendations for future research. Summary of background data Previous reviews of the etiology of neck pain in workers relied on cross-sectional evidence. Recently published cohorts and randomized trials warrant a re-analysis of this body of research. Methods We systematically searched Medline for literature published from 1980-2006. Retrieved articles were reviewed for relevance. Relevant articles were critically appraised. Articles judged to have adequate internal validity were included in our best evidence synthesis. Results One hundred and nine papers on the burden and determinants of neck pain in workers were scientifically admissible. The annual prevalence of neck pain varied from 27.1% in Norway to 47.8% in Quebec, Canada. Each year, between 11% and 14.1% of workers were limited in their activities because of neck pain. Risk factors associated with neck pain in workers include age, previous musculoskeletal pain, high quantitative job demands, low social support at work, job insecurity, low physical capacity, poor computer workstation design and work posture, sedentary work position, repetitive work and precision work. We found preliminary evidence that gender, occupation, headaches, emotional problems, smoking, poor job satisfaction, awkward work postures, poor physical work environment, and workers' ethnicity may be associated with neck pain. There is evidence that interventions aimed at modifying workstations and worker posture are not effective in reducing the incidence of neck pain in workers. Conclusion Neck disorders are a significant source of pain and activity limitations in workers. Most neck pain results from complex relationships between individual and workplace risk factors. No prevention strategies have been shown to reduce the incidence of neck pain in workers.

Reprinted from determinants of n the Bone and Joint Its Associated Dis permission from L From the a Ins and Department of Toronto, Canada. b Institute for W Health Policy, Man Toronto, Canada; D Toronto Western R Research Expertis University Health Western Hospital, c Department of for Injury Contr University of Albe d Institute of E Stockholm, Swede e Centre of Re comes (CREIDO Solutions, Toronto of Health Care Research Institute Health Sciences a University of Toro f Department o Canada; Occupatio British Columbia, g Centre of Rese (CREIDO), Unive Toronto Western H Health Sciences a University of Tor

Results of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000–2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders

The purpose of this review is to scrutinize the physiology of neck-shoulder pain and trapezius myalgia based on the most recent scientific literature. Therefore, systematic literature searches have been conducted. Occurrence of neck-shoulder pain, risk factors for development of neck-shoulder pain, and its work-relatedness are addressed. Furthermore, the latest information on the biochemical milieu within healthy and painful neck-shoulder muscles is reviewed. Finally diagnosis of and intervention for neck and shoulder pain are discussed.

Work related neck–shoulder pain: a review on magnitude, risk factors, biochemical characteristics, clinical picture and preventive interventions

http://hstaskforce.govt.nz/consultation/consultation-submissions/Kirsten%20Bendix%20Olsen%20(Part%20B).pdf

Occupational musculoskeletal and mental health: Significance of rationalization and opportunities to create sustainable production systems ― A systematic review

Background: The literature examining the effects of workstation, eyewear and behavioral interventions on musculoskeletal and visual symptoms among computer users is large and heterogeneous. Methods: A systematic review of the literature used a best evidence synthesis approach to address the general question “Do office interventions among computer users have an effect on musculoskeletal or visual health?” This was followed by an evaluation of specific interventions. Results: The initial search identified 7313 articles which were reduced to 31 studies based on content and quality. Overall, a mixed level of evidence was observed for the general question. Moderate evidence was observed for: (1) no effect of workstation adjustment, (2) no effect of rest breaks and exercise and (3) positive effect of alternative pointing devices. For all other interventions mixed or insufficient evidence of effect was observed. Conclusion: Few high quality studies were found that examined the effects of interventions in the office on musculoskeletal or visual health.

Kent M. Daum

Papers

Workplace interventions to prevent musculoskeletal and visual symptoms and disorders among computer users: a systematic review