ABSTRACT
There is clear and consistent evidence that shows musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most pre-
valent and expensive of all work-related injuries. These injuries have been positively associated with occu-
pational factors, and rank first in frequency among workers, with approximately half of the nation’s
workforce being affected (Bernard, 1997; National Research Council/Institute of Medicine, 2001;
NIOSH, 2004). Consistent with other industries, MSDs are the most common of all occupational injuries
and illnesses for farm workers (Villarejo, 1998; Villarejo and Baron, 1999; McCurdy and Carroll, 2000;
McCurdy et al., 2003). MSDs in agriculture are commonly reported at rates near or above those of trau-
matic injury, respiratory illness, pesticide-related injury or illness, dermatological injury or illness, or
other types of injuries and illnesses.
