The median age of our participants was 30, compared to 28 for all rakers. Since the survey was conducted in late August, some rakers might have left work because of pain. The typical raking motion involved constant firm grip on the handle, ulnar deviation of the wrist initially to insert the tines into the bush, followed by radial deviation and lifting of the rake to separate berries. These forceful and repetitive motions would cause friction on the tenosynovium and explain a high incidence of tendinitis. Many seasonal workers depend on income from this work, which nonetheless needs to be performed without adverse health effects.
Some efforts are underway to improve the design of the rake.