More than four out of every ten injuries and illnesses causing workers to take time off were sprains and strains, most often involving the back, in 1999, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here are the top ten injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work in 1999:

Sprains, strains, tears — 739,700 cases

Bruises, contusions — 156,000

Cuts, lacerations — 132,400

Fractures — 113,700

Heat burns, scalds — 27,100

Carpal tunnel syndrome — 27,900

Tendonitis — 16,600

Chemical burns — 11,600

Amputations — 10,000