Ergonomics, Work, and Health.

The purpose of this book is to provide an integrated ergonomic and medical approach to the problems of work-related injuries. The application of basic ergonomic principles to commonly encountered work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the causative factors associated with these work-related physical demands are presented. The author refers to these combined disciplines as "clinical ergonomics." The author's intent is to reach a broad, interdisciplinary audience that has a multitude of experiences, backgrounds, and expertise. The individual who is new to either discipline will find the corollary information a good introductory overview. For those with a basic, functional, working knowledge of both musculoskeletal injury and ergonomic factors, the information will be elementary and provide little new information.

Information about work physiology, work design, and work stressors is comprehensive. Supporting epidemiologic and other applicable research is thorough and current. Application of "clinical ergonomics" is discussed in light of varying political and social systems, with various international standards presented. Although comprehensive overviews of ergonomic topics and work-related musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain and repetitive strain injuries are given, the day-to-day application in the physical therapy clinic is circuitous. For example, the stressors associated with driving are thoroughly discussed, the use of hand tools and associated problems are described, and basics of visual work are presented, but specific interventions with application and problem-solving techniques are not specifically discussed.

A useful tool that should benefit clinicians who are dealing with musculoskeletal disorders, either identified or unidentified as work-related, is the "Checklist: Thirty Ergonomic Questions for the Patient's Case History." This checklist provides valuable information that may help the physical therapist integrate work-related issues into the initial information-gathering process and to address work-related issues critical for long-term results.

This book is well written and easy to read, with the chapters progressing sequentially through the various injury and ergonomic topics. One difficulty encountered with the organization of this book is the frequent referencing to other sections of the book dealing with related topics. This encourages the constant flipping of pages when it often is not essential to understanding the topic being presented. Illustrations and charts are used to complement the written material. A comprehensive reference list is included. Specific identification of the reference material is not included in the text, however, making it difficult to confirm or supplement the textual information.

This text was written for clinicians and ergonomists who are in the initial process of integrating services. It should be of interest to students and clinicians who are novices at identifying and assessing workplace issues and at using information from the workplace to enhance care and prevent injury and reinjury. The text is not intended for the veteran clinician or ergonomist who has experience in identifying, addressing, treating, analyzing, or preventing work-related musculoskeletal injuries.