DETECTING CUMULATIVE TRAUMA DISORDERS IN WORKERS PERFORMING REPETITIVE TASKS

On-site testing of 157 poultry processors disclosed that 50% had three or more abnormal upper extremity findings out of a total of 22 possib les. The average worker had five to six abnormal findings. Impaired pi nch strength, decreased vibration sensitivity in the fingertips, and r eports of current numbness were the most prevalent. Of workers with si gns, 25% reported no symptoms, whereas only 8% of workers reported sym ptoms but had no signs. The investigators concluded that this measurem ent method has utility for assessments of worker populations to determ ine prevalence of CTDs and, potentially, for preclinical detection of these disorders to permit early intervention, reduce medical costs, an d minimize disability. The need for accurate measurement to enhance ea rly detection and prevention is discussed. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.