Project Archive

Abstract:

Professional American Sign Language, ASL, interpreters face the challenge of finding effective professional development due to lack of structural supervision, accessibility, and availability of treatment. In fact, according to Roman (2021), €œcommonly reported musculoskeletal conditions include repetitive motion injury (53%, also known as overuse or cumulative trauma), myofascitis/tendinitis (43%) and nerve entrapment (36%; 21: from carpal tunnel syndrome and 15% from ulnar neuropathy) (Fischer & woodcock, 2012; Kroeger, 2014; Podhorodecki & Spielholz, 1993). Over a 12 month period, signers self reported shoulder (81%), neck (79%), and forearm-wrist-hand (74%) as the body regions with pain. To address this issue, a qualitative research study was conducted to investigate ASL interpreters' experience and perceptions of professional development initiatives pertaining to prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The study involved five ASL interpreters from Orange Coast and two independent agencies of interpreters. Qualitative data were collected through recordings of semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that ASL interpreters lack resources in finding workshops or guidance to the physical ailments of the injuries they could accumulate over a period on the job. As a result of these findings, the study recommends the need for more professional support in this area, including practice and research. With professional development initiatives, institutions of higher education, professional healthcare, and interpreting agencies can not only help prevent occupational injuries but also offer valuable insights to prevent their occurrence.