**2. Current treatments for overuse—MSDs**

The first line of treatment for workers in pain usually entails a prescription of non*-*steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen [12, 13]. NSAIDs are the most commonly used (self-care and prescribed) for acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain [14–17]. A survey study of 941 workers found that 84% used NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, for pain [17]. Forty percent of 2213 French workers reported the regular use of ibuprofen in a 1-month period [18]. Back and shoulder injuries and other musculoskeletal strains are largely selftreated by migrant farm workers with rest and over-the-counter drugs, such as ibuprofen [14]. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (termed RICE oftewn) are also often used to treat acute injuries. However, RICE has proved less effective for treatment of pain associated with chronic overuse—MSDs than NSAIDs. Splinting for carpal tunnel syndrome is less effective than surgical release or injections of steroids around the nerve [19–24], which are also not always effective [19–24].
