Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Both randomised and non-randomised controlled trials were included in the review. The studies had to be published as full reports.
Specific interventions included in the review
The trials had to include a conservative, i.e. nonsurgical, therapy arm. All types of conservative intervention that were prescribed or performed in the treatment of RSI were included: occupational therapy, physiotherapy, exercises, behavioural therapy, chiropractic, multidisciplinary treatment or medication. Ergonomic measures were also included.
Participants included in the review
Participants with RSI were included. RSI was defined as any work disorder of the upper extremity, neck or thoracic region in adults of a working age (18 to 65 years), due to repetitive work or continuous strain at work. Patients with such complaints that were non work-related were excluded. All occupational groups were included. Studies that reported on patients with acute trauma, neoplasm, metastatic diseases and fractures were excluded.
Outcomes assessed in the review
The primary outcome measures were self-reported pain intensity (as measured on a visual analogue scale or a numerical rating scale), a global measure of improvement, return to work and generic functional status (as measured by SF-36, Nottingham Health Profile, Sickness Impact Profile).
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
Two reviewers independently evaluated the studies and any disagreements were resolved by consensus.