Health care utilization and workplace interventions for neck and upper limb problems among newspaper workers

Data on the use of various therapeutic interventions among working populations at risk for musculoskeletal disorders are rare, despite the need for such information in assessing adherence to best practices. Using the results of a cross-sectional survey of newspaper workers who reported neck and upper limb pain or discomfort (n = 309), we describe the prevalence of a wide range of clinical and workplace interventions. Information/education, exercises, and physical treatments were the most common interventions, and work changes were less prevalent. Those with more frequent, longer-duration, and/or more severe symptoms more commonly reported visits to physiotherapists and health practitioners at work and use of physical treatments, medications, and devices. The multiplicity of interventions used pose evaluation challenges for occupational health practitioners and researchers.