Use of the ‘Typing Capacity Cycle’ Test as an Assessment Tool for Keyboard Users with Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder

Abstract

This paper describes a ‘typing capacity cycle’ test (first typing period + recovery time) for keyboard users with Type II Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder. The test was implemented on both control and patient groups on a standardised VDU in a neutral location. The patients’ test results showed that the typing speed and the typing endurance were not directly correlated with the required recovery period. This is a new finding. We therefore suggest that measuring the ‘typing capacity cycle’ represents true work capacity more accurately than recording typing speed in patients with Type II Work Related Upper Limb Disorder. Performance of a small group of Type II WRULD patients following rehabilitation is also reported.