Job stress, upper extremity pain and functional limitations in symptomatic computer users

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Research suggests that exposure to occupational stressors are related to the presence and/or exacerbation of work-related upper extremity symptoms in office workers. Also worker's response to work demands and/or job stressors (i.e., workstyle) may exacerbate symptom severity and impact function. The present study examines the association among work demands, job stress and workstyle on pain and function. METHODS: 124 symptomatic female office workers completed a questionnaire measuring demographics, medical history, work demands, perception of the work environment, workstyle, pain intensity, functional impact, and time lost from work. RESULTS: Heightened job stress and the tendency to continue to work in a way that contributes to pain to ensure high quality (dimension of workstyle) were related to pain intensity at work and decreased function. These variables, in addition to hours worked per year, were related to increased pain experienced across the work week. The model tested did not predict the occurrence of lost time. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings provide support for the association between job stress, workstyle, upper extremity pain and function. While it is not possible to determine the exact direction of the observed relationships, these results are consistent with prior research indicating the potential significance of job stress and workstyle on symptom exacerbation and functional limitations. Implications for evaluation and intervention are discussed.

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