Treatment

There is a lack of good evidence on the clinical management of work related musculoskeletal disorders. Each individual disorder has its own cause and pattern of diagnosis. This reinforces the importance of individual case management for ULDs. Depending on the case specifics, treatment will include reassurance and advice about the appropriateness of returning to similar work. The health professional (HP) should ensure wherever possible that good ergonomic practice and postures are adopted.

People with ULDs usually completely recover if the problem is recognised early, accurately diagnosed and treated appropriately. Even where symptoms have become chronic and severe, occupational rehabilitation can be successful. The approach to most pain from acute ULDs is to temporarily reduce the intensity of any activity that is contributing to the symptoms and reduce soft tissue inflammation. A short period of complete rest may be helpful only if inflammation is present. Protracted rest should be avoided unless under medical supervision as this can lead to deconditioning and weakening of the muscles and associated structures. Additional actions may be concerned with increasing muscle strength, range of joint movement and functional capacity.

Treatment may include the use of cold packs; analgesia, physical therapies, improved posture at work; effective rest/ work break periods, use of a collar for persistent symptoms, interlesional steroid injection.

Anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesic pain killers can be useful for symptom relief. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy practitioners can provide a range of treatments.

Treatment of non-specific arm pain usually requires a detailed approach to be taken to the individual sufferer. Therapeutic measures based on a reduction of stress, counseling, relaxation along with pain relief may be useful.