Ligaments: a source of work-related musculoskeletal disorders

The mechanical and neurological properties of ligaments are reviewed and updated with recent development from the perspective which evaluates their role as a source of neuromusculoskeletal disorders resulting from exposure to occupational activities, Creep, tension-relaxation, hysteresis, sensitivity to strain rate and strain/load frequency were shown to result not only in mechanical functional degradation but also in the development of sensory-motor disorders with short- and long-term implication on function and disability. The recently exposed relationships between collagen fibers, applied mechanical stimuli, tissue microdamage, acute and chronic inflammation and neuromuscular disorders is delineated with special reference to occupational stressors. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.