DETECTING SUBMAXIMAL EFFORT IN PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM EPICONDYLITIS BY A BIOMECHANICAL TEST

Lateral epicondylitis is a common work-related musculoskeletal disorder. It affects 5.2% of the population and occurs in middle-aged person 30-50 years. Work-related factors are type of work, physical load and psychosocial aspects at work. Associated with lateral epicondylitis are repetitive movements >2h/day, handling tools >1kg, handling loads >20kg 10 times/day. Psychosocial factors are low job control and low social support. The wrist extensor muscles suffer repeated microtrauma, which end up producing their insertion epicondylar injury, developing pain and functional disability. Occupational disease cost, which has been accepted by the Ministry of Labour and Immigration, are 5000 millions in direct costs and EUR 13,000 million in indirect costs in Spain.