Cumulative trauma disorders are usually caused by repeated and/or forceful exertions, often in the hand-arm-shoulder region. They predominantly affect soft tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, and nerves and blood vessels. Other causes include static muscle load, mechanical stress, vibration and cord. Details are given of some specific repetitive strain disorders and a table summarises the associations between various disorders and typical body and job activities. An outline is given of ergonomics measures to avoid the more common cumulative trauma disorders.

Support: Digital