Work with prolonged arm elevation as a risk factor for shoulder pain: A longitudinal study among young adults. (March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hanvold, Therese Nordberg; Wærsted, Morten; Mengshoel, Anne Marit; Bjertness, Espen; Veiersted, Kaj Bo
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 47(2015:Mar.)
• Page Start: 43
• Page End: 51
• Publication Date: 2015-03
• Subjects: Mechanical workload -- Musculoskeletal disorders -- Inclinometer; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2014.08.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: This prospective study aimed at examining if work with prolonged arm elevation predicts shoulder pain among 41 young adults in their first years of working life. Fifteen hairdressers, 15 electricians, 5 students and 6 with various work were followed over a 2.5-year period (2006/7–2009). Arm elevation was measured with inclinometers during a full working day at baseline. Shoulder pain was reported at baseline and twice in the follow-up period. Data were analyzed by generalized estimating equations (GEE-analysis), stratified by gender and adjusted for time, mechanical workload, work demand, physical activity, tobacco use and prior shoulder pain. Work with prolonged arm elevation with angles >60° and >90° were associated with shoulder pain among women. Even though the shoulder pain levels are low the study suggests work with arms elevated as an early work-related risk factor among women, and indicates the importance of early prevention strategies. Highlights: Longitudinal association between work with arm elevation and shoulder pain in the first years of working life. An association between prolonged arm elevation and shoulder pain was found among women. Low levels of shoulder pain are found. The associations may nevertheless be early indicators of more severe shoulder pain.