Risk factors for occupational osteoarthritis: a literature review

Abstract

Sixteen articles published between 1987 and 2008 regarding work-related activities as risk factors for osteoarthritis of the knee, hand, foot, hip, and cervical spine were chronologically reviewed. Despite challenges (e.g., nonresponse bias, inadequate sample size, and retrospective exposure assessment), the review findings indicated a strong relationship between physical strain experienced while performing physically demanding jobs and the incidence of osteoarthritis. This conclusion informs occupational health nurses' work and design of work policies.