Prevalence and impact of musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb in the general population

To determine the prevalence, interrelation, and impact of musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb in the general population.

A total of 9,696 randomly selected adults of working age were surveyed in a 2-stage cross-sectional study involving a screening questionnaire and a standardized physical examination in symptomatic subjects. Age- and sex-specific prevalence rates were estimated for several musculoskeletal disorders and for nonspecific pain in the upper limbs. The overlap and impact on daily activities and healthcare utilization were explored.