The predictive validity of the RSI QuickScan questionnaire with respect to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms in computer workers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine whether results from the RSI QuickScan questionnaire on risk factors for arm, shoulder and neck symptoms can predict future arm, neck and shoulder symptoms in a population of computer workers. For this prospective cohort study, with a follow-up of 24 months, 3383 workers who regularly worked with a computer were approached. Generalised estimating equations (GEE) with 6, 12, 18 and 24 months time lags were used to determine whether high exposure was related to symptoms at follow-up. The results showed that high scores on 9 out of 13 scales, including previous symptoms, were significantly related to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms at follow-up. These results provide support for the predictive validity of the RSI QuickScan questionnaire.

Practitioner Summary: The results showed that high scores on 9 out of 13 scales, including previous symptoms, were significantly related to arm, shoulder and neck symptoms at follow-up. The RSI QuickScan questionnaire may be recommended as a tool in the identification of computer workers who should be targeted with interventions aimed at prevention of future symptoms.

Keywords:

• office ergonomics
• ergonomics tools and methods
• musculoskeletal disorders
• upper limb disorders
• risk assessment and management

Acknowledgements

The study was funded by a grant from the Foundation Arbo Unie Netherlands. We thank Ruben Kraaijeveld for his assistance in preparing the dataset for analysis. We especially thank Arbo Unie for its willingness to participate in the study and the participants for their time and effort.