[Biomechanical overload diseases: epidemiologic data].

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a major problem for industrialised societies, particularly in view of the elevated prevalence of low back pain (LBP) and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) among manual workers. Epidemiological studies show that work-related risk factors, such as lifting, twisting, bending, exposure to whole body vibration, and prolonged postures are prominent risk factors for LBP. For CTS, repetitive movements, hand-arm vibrations and use of forceful hand movements appear to be the major work-related risk factors. Psychological and psychosocial factors can also affect the onset of both disorders. This review provides an overview of the main evidence in the scientific literature on these issues.