February 22, 2006

Blackberry Thumb: Emerging Work-Related Ailment or New Name for an Old Problem

Blackberry Thumb has generated quite a media “buzz,” causing some employers to be concerned about its potentially adverse impact on employee health and productivity. Given the fact that 32 percent of all 2004 injuries/illnesses requiring days away from work were musculoskeletal (MSD) disorders 1--and Blackberry Thumb is a form of MSD---concern is understandable; however, employers should not become alarmed, as this type of injury (repetitive strain) is a common disorder in the workplace that can be prevented and treated by adopting common sense workplace preventive health principles.