Ethics approval was gained prior to commencement
of the study. Workplaces employing more
than 20 computer users were targeted for inclusion
in this cross-sectional study. The aim in sampling
was to include a range of computer users, from
intensive mouse users to non-mouse users. All the
companies approached except one company agreed
to participate. This company was undergoing restructuring
at the time of data collection. Companies
were asked to identify groups of employees
who used computers for a majority of the workday.
Questionnaires regarding work patterns and musculoskeletal
symptoms were distributed to 431
people, employed by 15 workplaces in Sydney,
Australia. Workplaces included architectural and
interior design companies, a telecommunications