Musculoskeletal problems

Last updated 1/17/03

A. Some studies have shown an elevated prevalence of osteoarthritis and rheumatism in farmers. These may be attributable to vibration exposure and poor ergonomic conditions.

B. Prior to widespread use of milking parlors, the increased prevalence of degenerative knee disease in dairy farmers was thought to be attributable to repeated squatting and bending while milking.

C. Little is known about the incidence or prevalence of back pain in farmers; most available information is anecdotal. bending, weight lifting, and sudden back motion appear to be the causes to which low back pain in farmers is most likely attributed.