Health and Safety Executive

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Upper limb disorders

Upper limb disorders (ULDs) affect the arms, from fingers to shoulder, and neck. They are often called repetitive strain injuries, 'RSI', cumulative trauma disorder or occupational overuse syndrome.

ULDs are common both in the workplace and elsewhere. In 2005/06 an estimated 374 000 people in Great Britain suffered from an ULD caused or made worse by their work.

ULDs can result from various kinds of work. On this website you can find information of use to employers, workers, occupational health professionals or those just interested in the treatment and management of ULDs.

ULDs can be associated with the use of display screen equipment (DSE) or work using vibrating tools. You can find advice on good practice on the DSE and Hand-arm vibration at work pages.

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Updated 2011-08-31