Shoulder disorders and occupation

Shoulder pain is very common, and it causes substantial morbidity. Standardised classification systems based upon presumed pathoanatomical origins have proved poorly reproducible and hampered epidemiological research. Despite this, there is evidence that exposure to combinations of physical workplace strains such as overhead working, heavy lifting and forceful work as well as working in an awkward posture increases the risk of shoulder disorders. Psychosocial risk factors are also associated. There is currently little evidence to suggest that either primary prevention or treatment strategies in the workplace are very effective, and more research is required, particularly around the costeffectiveness of different strategies. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.