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Ergonomics and Risk Factor Awareness

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Signs of MSDs

Hands showing range of wrist motion Signs of MSDs may result in a functional loss - that is, a person with a MSD may not be able to bend over to tie their shoe laces. Signs are objective findings and can be measured or observed.

Examples of signs include:

  • decreased grip strength
  • loss of muscle function
  • decreased range of motion
  • deformity
  • swelling
  • decreased nerve conduction
  • change in skin color when exposed to cold or vibration

If you ignore these signs, permanent damage may occur.