Upper limb symptoms and occupational aspects in manicurists

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe upper limb symptoms in manicurists, who also performed domestic chores, and compare them with symptoms identified in house wives. Seventy female manicurists (mean age 34 years) and seventy house wives (mean age 37 years from a similar social class as the manicurists) were interviewed by the authors. A questionnaire designed for this study provided structure to the interview. The results showed a significant difference between these groups. The manicurists were twice more prone to experience musculoskeletal symptoms than the house wives (Relative Risk=2). Some types of symptoms, such as trembling, heaviness sensation and temperature alterations, were experienced only by the manicurists. Concerning pain symptoms, the manicurists were almost three times more prone to be affected (Relative Risk=3.0). Although no statistical differences were found, the production rates for the non-symptomatic manicurists were 18% higher than for the symptomatic ones. Therefore, the results suggest the necessity of redesigning the nail clippers. Relevance to industry Different types of cutters are used in several industrial activities. Depending on their design, they can cause hand discomforts and injuries. Concurrent studies on a group of subjects exposed to such risks may lead to a better understanding of the problem, and also provide basic data for redesigning the tool.