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 ) .
Are Work Disability Prevention Interventions Effective for the Management of Neck Pain or Upper Extremity Disorders? A Systematic Review by the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management (OPTIMa) Collaboration
Abstract Purpose We conducted a systematic review to critically appraise and synthesize literature on the effectiveness of work disability prevention ( WDP ) interventions in workers with neck pain , whiplash-associated disorders ( WAD ) , or upper extremity disorders . Methods We search ed electronic data bases from 1990 to 2012 . R and om pairs of independent review ers critically appraised eligible studies using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria . Scientifically admissible studies were summarized and synthesized following best- evidence synthesis methodology . Results Of the 6,359 articles retrieved , 16 r and omized controlled trials were eligible for critical appraisal and five were admissible . We found that a return-to-work coordination program ( including workplace-based work hardening ) was superior to clinic-based work hardening for persistent rotator cuff tendinitis . Workplace high-intensity strength training and workplace advice had similar outcomes for neck and shoulder pain . Mensendieck/Cesar postural exercises and strength and fitness exercises had similar outcomes for non-specific work-related upper limb complaints . Adding a brief job stress education program to a workplace ergonomic intervention was not beneficial for persistent upper extremity symptoms . Adding computer-prompted work breaks to ergonomic adjustments and workplace education benefited workers ’ recovery from recent work-related neck and upper extremity complaints . Conclusions At present , no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding the effectiveness of WDP interventions for managing neck pain , WAD , and upper extremity disorders . Our review suggests a return-to-work coordination program is more effective than clinic-based work hardening . Also , adding computer-prompted breaks to ergonomic and workplace interventions benefits workers ’ recovery . The current quality of evidence does not allow for a definitive evaluation of the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions
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 ) .