Affiliations: College of Rehabilitation and Health Sciences, Boston
University, Boston, MA, USA | Occupational Science and Therapy, University of
British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada | Department of Occupational Therapy, University of
Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Saralynn J. Allaire, 635
Commonwealth Avenue, 6th Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA. Tel.: +1 617
353 2384; Fax: +1 617 353 7500; E-mail: sallaire@bu.edu
Abstract: Prior articles in this series on employment and arthritis have
documented the major impact arthritis and other rheumatic conditions have on
employment. As expected, physically demanding job tasks, including hand use,
are substantial risk factors for work limitation. Computer use has been
increasing. People with arthritis may choose occupations involving extensive
computer use to avoid occupations with other physical demands. But studies show
many people with arthritis conditions have difficulty using computers. Ergonomic assessment and implementation helps relieve the physical and other
demands of jobs. The Ergonomic Assessment Tool for Arthritis (EATA) is
specifically for people with arthritis conditions. Since the EATA can be
conducted off worksite, it is feasible to use with workers not wishing to
disclose their condition to their employer. Available research supports the effectiveness of ergonomic intervention as a viable method to reduce work
limitation for persons with arthritis. Some workers will need additional
vocational intervention to remain employed long term. However, ergonomic
intervention is a useful first step, as it promotes awareness of arthritis
effects on work activities. Assisting workers with arthritis or other rheumatic
conditions to use ergonomics to enhance their ability to work well should be an
important aspect of managing these conditions.
