Existing tools for monitoring work related neck and upper limb disorders were reviewed. Analysis indicated that there were 12 domains which were major areas of life affected when a worker suffers a neck or upper limb disorder. These 12 domains included work, household and family activities and responsibilities, care of one's self, driving and transportation functions, sexual activity, securing adequate restful sleep, participating in social activities, enjoying recreational hobbies, one's attitude and mood swings, one's own feeling of self importance and independence, monetary aspects due to lower wages or added expenses, and iatrogenic effects of assessments and treatment. The study examined 52 instruments which were identified as being able to determine the functional status of the patient. Of the 52 identified, 21 met criteria of dealing with items of work, self care and domestic responsibilities which indicated they had the potential to be relevant. These 21 were rated on a three point scale for relevance and comprehensiveness for each of the 12 domains. Of the 21 instruments tested, ten adequately covered the areas of work, self care and domestic responsibilities. Six covered these three areas and also recreational activities. Very few of the instruments examined dealt with sleep, self esteem, sexual activities, iatrogenic effects, or financial impact. The authors urge the development of a new instrument designed for this population of workers.

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