There was strong evidence for one intervention category , resistance training , leading to the recommendation : Implementing a workplace-based resistance training exercise programme can help prevent and manage UEMSD and symptoms .
The synthesis also revealed moderate evidence for stretching programmes , mouse use feedback and forearm supports in preventing UEMSD or symptoms .
There was also moderate evidence for no benefit for EMG biofeedback , job stress management training , and office workstation adjustment for UEMSD and symptoms .
The burden of disabling musculoskeletal pain and injuries ( musculoskeletal disorders , MSDs ) arising from work-related causes in many workplaces remains substantial .
There is little consensus on the most appropriate interventions for MSDs .
Our objective was to up date a systematic review of workplace-based interventions for preventing and managing  upper extremity MSD ( UEMSD ) .
A field study of supplementary rest breaks for data-entry operators
This study examined the effects of supplementary rest breaks on musculoskeletal discomfort , eyestrain , mood , and performance in data -entry workers . Two rest break schedules were compared in a within-subjects design . Workers alternated between a ‘ conventional ’ and a ‘ supplementary ’ schedule in 4-week intervals . The conventional schedule contained a 15-min break during the first half of the work shift and a 15-min break during the second half of the shift . The supplementary schedule contained the same two 15-min breaks , and a 5-min break during each hour which otherwise did not contain a break , for a total of 20 extra minutes of break time . Results are based on data from 42 workers . They indicated that discomfort in several areas of the body , and eyestrain , were significantly lower under the supplementary than under the conventional schedule . While symptoms increased from pre- to post-work periods under both schedules , the magnitude of the increases was significantly less under the supplementary schedule . In addition , increases in discomfort of the right forearm , wrist and h and over the course of the work week under the conventional schedule were eliminated under the supplementary schedule . These beneficial effects were obtained without reductions in data -entry performance
There was strong evidence for one intervention category , resistance training , leading to the recommendation : Implementing a workplace-based resistance training exercise programme can help prevent and manage UEMSD and symptoms .
The synthesis also revealed moderate evidence for stretching programmes , mouse use feedback and forearm supports in preventing UEMSD or symptoms .
There was also moderate evidence for no benefit for EMG biofeedback , job stress management training , and office workstation adjustment for UEMSD and symptoms .
The burden of disabling musculoskeletal pain and injuries ( musculoskeletal disorders , MSDs ) arising from work-related causes in many workplaces remains substantial .
There is little consensus on the most appropriate interventions for MSDs .
Our objective was to up date a systematic review of workplace-based interventions for preventing and managing  upper extremity MSD ( UEMSD ) .