A cross-sectional study of the relation between symptoms and physical findings in computer operators
2006

Study on Computer Operators' Upper Limb Disorders

Sample size: 96 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jepsen Jørgen R, Thomsen Gert

Primary Institution: Department of Occupational Medicine, Ribe County Hospital

Hypothesis

The summarized pain score in the mouse-operating limbs exceeds the score in the non-mouse operating limbs.

Conclusion

The study indicates that symptomatic computer operators may have specific peripheral nerve afflictions.

Supporting Evidence

  • 67 out of 96 participants reported pain in their mouse-operating limbs.
  • Abnormal physical findings were prevalent among participants.
  • The summarized pain score was significantly higher in mouse-operating limbs.

Takeaway

This study looked at computer workers and found that those who use a mouse a lot often have pain and other problems in their arms.

Methodology

Participants completed a questionnaire and underwent a physical examination assessing muscle function, sensory perception, and nerve sensitivity.

Potential Biases

Subjectivity in self-reported symptoms and examiner assessments may introduce bias.

Limitations

The study is small-scale and may not represent all computer operators.

Participant Demographics

39 females and 57 males, median age 30 years, with a range of 20-60 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0000

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2377-6-40

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