Work related upper limb disorders.

BACKGROUND: Work related upper limb disorders (WRULDs) are among the most common workers' compensation claims. Their management is a challenge for medical practitioners for a range of reasons.

OBJECTIVE: This article describes the common WRULDs and summarises current management strategies.

DISCUSSION: The identification and management of WRULDs is complicated by diagnostic, aetiological and therapeutic uncertainties. The workers' compensation system further complicates the issue. Despite this, there are useful strategies that medical practitioners can employ to assist patients with upper limb pain in the work environment to alleviate distress, minimise disability and maximise function.