Occupational disorders in orthopaedics encompass a spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions resulting from work-related activities, environments, and ergonomic factors. These disorders often develop gradually over time due to repetitive motions, poor posture, overexertion, and prolonged exposure to occupational hazards.
Common occupational disorders in orthopaedics include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers, commonly associated with repetitive tasks like typing or assembly line work.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons due to repetitive movements or overuse, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted mobility in affected joints such as the shoulder, elbow, or wrist.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, often aggravated by repetitive activities or prolonged kneeling.
- Lower Back Pain: A prevalent occupational disorder attributed to poor ergonomics, heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, and improper lifting techniques, causing discomfort, stiffness, and reduced productivity.