MSDs - Shoulders & Arms

There are other MSDs of the upper extremities that can be caused by ergonomically improper workstation setup and by jobs that require repetitive movements.

De Quervain's tendinitis or de Quervain's disease can result when over-usage of the wrist or thumb causes swelling of the thumb tendon. Symptoms include pain along the bottom of the thumb and in the wrist, as well as cracking or creaking noises from thumb movements.

Cubital tunnel syndrome or ulnar neuropathy is caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve near the elbow. Repeatedly leaning on your elbow or participating in intense physical activity can cause this syndrome. Early symptoms can include pain and numbness in the elbow and tingling of the ring and little fingers. Advanced stages can include weakness of the ring and little fingers, loss of grip strength, decreasing ability to close or pinch the thumb and little finger together, and muscle wasting or deformities of the hand.

Trigger finger is a condition that can result from repeated movement or forceful use of the finger or thumb. It can also be caused by grasping something, like a telephone handset, with a firm grip for a long period of time. Symptoms can progress from soreness at the base of a finger or thumb to permanent immobility of the digit in a straight or bent position.

To learn more about Office Ergonomics visit our Office Ergonomics Online Training web page.