Ergonomics Awareness Training for Supervisors Practice Test

Which condition can result from repetitive use of tools like a hammer?

1. Carpenter's elbow

2. Stress fractures

3. Tendinitis

4. Carpal tunnel syndrome

The correct answer is: Carpenter's elbow

The condition that can arise from the repetitive use of tools such as a hammer is tendinitis. Tendinitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. This condition often develops due to repetitive motion or overuse, particularly in jobs or activities that require constant gripping or impact motions, such as hammering. In this context, the repetitive striking motion involved in using a hammer places significant stress on the tendons of the forearm and wrist. Over time, this can lead to micro-tears in the tendon tissue, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Recognizing these symptoms is vital for early intervention, which can include modifying activities, using ergonomic tools, and implementing strength and flexibility exercises to alleviate the strain on the affected tendons. Understanding how repetitive tool use contributes to tendinitis is crucial in ergonomics, as it emphasizes the need for proper tool design, breaks, and movement variations to minimize the risk of such injuries.