Upper Limb Disorders
Common Questions

• Upper limb disorders are one of the most common work-related problems in the UK.
• They refer to a range of conditions affecting any part of the arm from the finger tips to the shoulder and neck. People often refer to their symptoms as RSI (repetitive strain injury)
• They can affect people in many types of work, including those who spend long periods at their desks or even those who play musical instruments.
• Evidence suggests that most upper limb disorders will recover without long-term problems, but early recognition and accurate diagnosis is vital

What are the sign and symptoms of upper limb disorders?

• Pain
• Ache or discomfort
• Tenderness
• Swelling

Abnormal sensations that may occur are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pins and needles
• Burning sensation
• Feeling of warmth or cold
• Cramp

Other observations may include:

• Stiffness
• Impairment of movement
• Weakness
• Reduced grip
• Muscle spasm

• Awkward or static postures, especially held for long periods of time.
• High rates of repetition
• Forceful movements performed frequently
• Heavy lifting or handling
• Even stress can be a contributing factor, as can a poor working environment.
• Usually a combination of factors, including individual differences, is involved and not all of them can be prevented.

• Ensure all your staff complete their DSE user training and self assessment
• Encourage your staff to take regular screen breaks
• Ensure all staff carrying out manual handling have had appropriate training, and any risks have been assessed and adequately controlled.
• Provide your staff with information on possible symptoms or signs
• Encourage your staff to report symptoms.
• Know what to do if a member of staff complains of symptoms, including referrals to Occupational Health.  Work with occupational health in supporting staff who are experiencing symptoms.

• Ensure that they have completed their DSE user training and on-line self assessment.
• Provide advice on self management )
• Refer them to the Occupational Health Provider if:
• They have symptoms which are continuous.
• They have had symptoms for more than 2 weeks
• They let you know they may have a condition that affects their workstation requirements
• They have asked to see a nurse
• As early management of symptoms is essential, any staff requiring time off work for their symptoms should be referred to the consultant occupational health physician by completing a referral form.
• Discuss any other concerns that they feel are related to their symptoms.

• Temporary reduction in work hours or scheduling
• Temporary allocation of work activities to avoid the types of activities that may have been contributing to the symptoms
• Regular rest breaks
• Trial of equipment that may help in reducing symptoms