[Prevalence and determinants of musculoskeletal disorders upper limbs in the Tunisian craftsmen]

Musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs] of the upper limbs are a major occupational health problem. We report the results of a cross-sectional survey of 334 craftsmen from the governorate of Monastir in Tunisia. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of MSDs among these workers and determine their risk factors. A pre-established questionnaire based on the Nordic MSD questionnaires, Karassik and the one developed by Malchaire in 2000 was used. In the 12 months prior to the survey, the prevalence of MSDs was 92.0%. The risk factors identified were related to individual characteristics, psychosocial factors and work organization. Appropriate preventive measures seem necessary in this sector