Table 4 Univariate associations between low back and shoulder pain in past 12 months and self reported risk factors

Strenuous shoulder/hand movements

1.18 (0.69 to 2.01)

1.41 (0.75 to 2.66)

Often use of vibrating tools

1.51 (0.89 to 2.57)

2.89 (1.20 to 6.95) *

Strenuous back postures

1.78 (1.19 to 2.66) *

1.52 (0.91 to 2.53)

Repetitive shoulder/hand movements

1.67 (1.07 to 2.61) *

1.27 (0.73 to 2.22)

High perceived exertion

1.85 (1.25 to 2.72) *

2.46 (1.48 to 4.09) *

High job demand

1.48 (1.01 to 2.17) *

1.87 (1.15 to 3.04) *

Low job control

1.41 (0.78 to 1.67)

1.25 (0.78 to 2.01)

High need for recovery

2.00 (1.35 to 2.96) *

1.97 (1.19 to 3.24) *

Moderate perceived general health

3.19 (2.13 to 4.77) *

2.23 (1.37 to 3.26) *