Upper extremity cumulative trauma disorder and return to work assessment

Issue title: Hands

Article type: Review Article

Authors: Bear-Lehman, Jane^;

Affiliations: Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Programs in Occupational Therapy, 710 West 168th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10032, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1 212 3053781; fax: + 1 212 3054569; e-mail: bearleh@cudept.cis.columbia.edu

Abstract: Evaluation of the patient with upper limb cumulative trauma disorder (CTD) requires use of both qualitative and quantitative measures. The clinical evaluations are reviewed, which include tests for range of motion, strength, limb size, sensation, and dexterity. Essential observations for identifying and describing the presentation of posture, symptoms, and painful events are illustrated for qualitative descriptions related to work activities and activities of daily living (ADL). Therapeutic intervention is described in two sequential stages: calming of symptoms and then control of symptoms.

Keywords: Hand, Repetitive strain injuries, Carpal tunnel syndrome

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1997-8102

Journal: Work, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 3-14, 1997