Musculoskeletal and neurological injuries associated with work organization among immigrant Latino women manual workers in North Carolina
Author: Arcury, T.
Date Published: 2014
Abstract
Background
This analysis examines the associations of work organization attributes
among Latino women in manual occupations with musculoskeletal and neurological
injuries.
Methods
Participants included 234 women in western North Carolina. Outcome
measures included epicondylitis, rotator cuff syndrome, back pain, and carpal tunnelsyndrome. Independent measures included indicators of job demand, job control, and jobsupport, as well as personal characteristics.
Results
Latina workers commonly experienced epicondylitis, rotator cuff syndrome, back
pain, and CTS. Awkward posture and decision latitude were associated with epicondylitis. Rotator cuff syndrome was associated with awkward posture and psychological demand. Awkward posture and psychological demand, and decreased skill variety and job control were related to CTS.
Conclusions
Work organization factors are potentially important for musculoskeletal and
neurological injury among vulnerable workers. Research is required to understand the associations of work and health outcomes of these women. Policy initiatives need to consider how work organization affects health.