• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Often associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent upper limb disorder, especially in occupations involving extensive computer use. Employees in administrative roles, IT professionals, and writers are at an increased risk. Encouraging proper ergonomic practices, providing wrist supports, and implementing regular breaks for hand and wrist stretches can be effective preventive measures.
• Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow: Jobs involving repetitive gripping, lifting, or activities that strain the forearm can lead to conditions like Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow. Mechanics, construction workers, and individuals involved in manual labor are susceptible. Implementing proper training on lifting techniques, offering ergonomic tools, and suggesting specific exercises for forearm strength can help mitigate these disorders.
• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Employees engaged in tasks requiring repetitive overhead movements, such as painting or lifting objects, are prone to rotator cuff injuries. Proper warm-up routines, shoulder-strengthening exercises, and emphasizing the use of mechanical aids for heavy lifting can significantly reduce the risk of these injuries.
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Common in jobs that involve prolonged sitting or overhead work, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can cause pain and numbness in the upper extremities. Implementing ergonomic workstations, promoting proper posture, and encouraging regular breaks for stretching exercises can help prevent this condition.

Upper limb disorders are more common in tasks that involve:

• Prolonged repetitive work, particularly using the same hand or arm action
• Uncomfortable or awkward working postures
• Sustained or excessive force
• Carrying out a task for a long time without suitable rest breaks
• Working with hand-held power tools for long periods of time

Other things that may have an influence are:

• Poor working environment (including temperature and lighting);
• Poor work organisation (including workload, job demands and lack of breaks);
• Individual differences and vulnerability (some workers are more affected by certain risks).