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Rotaru-Zavaleanu AD, Lungulescu CV, Bunescu MG, Vasile RC, Gheorman V, Gresita A, Dinescu VC. Occupational Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: a scoping review of causes, mechanisms, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1407302. [PMID: 38841666 PMCID: PMC11150592 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1407302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has traditionally been viewed as a specialized medical condition. However, its escalating prevalence among professionals across a multitude of industries has sparked substantial interest in recent years. This review aims to delve into CTS as an occupational disease, focusing on its epidemiological patterns, risk factors, symptoms, and management options, particularly emphasizing its relevance in professional environments. The complex interaction of anatomical, biomechanical, and pathophysiological factors that contribute to the development of CTS in different work settings underlines the critical role of ergonomic measures, prompt clinical identification, and tailored treatment plans in reducing its effects. Nevertheless, the challenges presented by existing research, including diverse methodologies and definitions, highlight the need for more unified protocols to thoroughly understand and tackle this issue. There's a pressing demand for more in-depth research into the epidemiology of CTS, its injury mechanisms, and the potential role of targeted medicine. Moreover, recognizing CTS's wider ramifications beyond personal health is essential. The economic burden associated with CTS-related healthcare costs, productivity losses, and compensation claims can significantly impact both businesses and the broader society. Therefore, initiatives aimed at preventing CTS through workplace interventions, education, and early intervention programs not only benefit the affected individuals but also contribute to the overall well-being of the workforce and economic productivity. By fostering a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, employers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, we can strive towards creating safer and healthier work environments while effectively managing the challenges posed by CTS in occupational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marius Gabriel Bunescu
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | | | - Victor Gheorman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Andrei Gresita
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY, United States
| | - Venera Cristina Dinescu
- Department of Health Promotion and Occupational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
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Alamir MA, Alfouzan RK, Alhumaidan A, Abozaid HS, Alhudhaif HM, Alsuhaim R, Alkholaifi MA. Awareness of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among the Middle-Aged Population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e49544. [PMID: 38156166 PMCID: PMC10753518 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a common and often underdiagnosed condition, imposes a significant burden on individuals, particularly in middle-aged populations. This study aims to assess the awareness and prevalence of CTS among middle-aged residents in Riyadh, highlighting the crucial need for targeted educational initiatives to address knowledge gaps. Methodology A cross-sectional study design was employed to capture a snapshot of CTS awareness and prevalence among the middle-aged population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Participants aged 40-60 residing in Riyadh were included. A self-reported questionnaire gathered data on demographics, CTS diagnosis, and awareness levels regarding symptoms, risk factors, treatment, and the impact of CTS. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and Chi-squared tests. Results We collected 415 valid responses to the questionnaire. The demographic profile revealed a balanced gender distribution, with 48.4% (n=201) males and 51.6% (n=214) females, and a majority (66.5%; n=276) within the 40-50 age range. A substantial 87.2% (n=362) reported no prior CTS diagnosis. Neuroimaging studies were infrequently conducted at 15.9% (n=66). Participants exhibited significant knowledge gaps, notably in the awareness of CTS diagnosis 66.3% (n=275) uncertainty, symptoms 55.4% (n=230) lack of knowledge, and risk factors 54.7% (n=227) lack of awareness. The results indicated uncertainty regarding the relationship between CTS and diabetes 63.9% (n=265) and knowledge gaps on anesthesia methods for CTS operations 64.1% (n=294). The association between age and CTS diagnosis was significant (p-value 0.004), while awareness did not significantly vary with gender or age. Conclusion This study unveils a substantial lack of awareness about CTS among the middle-aged population in Riyadh, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions. The prevalence of CTS remains underreported, with a notable gap in understanding symptoms, risk factors, and available treatments; the findings underscore the vital importance of targeted educational programs designed to raise public awareness, bridge information gaps, and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their hand health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moaath A Alamir
- Department of Surgery, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Rakan K Alfouzan
- Department of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Abdullah Alhumaidan
- Department of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Hesham S Abozaid
- Department of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Hamad M Alhudhaif
- Department of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Rakan Alsuhaim
- Department of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Mohammed A Alkholaifi
- Department of Anesthesia, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
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Panathoop A, Saengsuwan J, Vichiansiri R. Effects of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation vs. conventional therapy in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome: a pilot randomized controlled trial. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15398. [PMID: 37220528 PMCID: PMC10200096 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent entrapment neuropathy resulting in hand pain, numbness and/or weakness, which significantly impairs hand function in daily activities. Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) is a potential therapeutic option for focal peripheral nerve disease and may be beneficial for CTS treatment. We aimed to compare the effects of rPMS and conventional therapy in the management of CTS. Methods A blinded assessor randomly assigned 24 participants with electrodiagnostically-confirmed mild or moderate CTS to either rPMS or conventional therapy. Both groups were briefed on disease progression and tendon-gliding exercises. In the intervention group, the rPMS protocol, five sessions of rPMS-with a frequency of 10 Hz, 10 pulses/train, and 100 trains/session-were performed over a period of 2 weeks, with three sessions in the first week and two sessions in the second week. At baseline and the end of the second week, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, pinch strength, and electrodiagnostic results were evaluated. Results The rPMS group demonstrated significantly greater within-group improvement in symptom severity scores (2.3 vs. 1.6, p = 0.009) and pinch strength (10.6 lbs vs. 13.8 lbs, p < 0.001). Regarding electrodiagnostic parameters, sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude was significantly increased (8.7 µV vs. 14.3 µV, p = 0.002) within the group treated with rPMS. With conventional therapy, there were no statistically significant within-group differences. Multiple linear regression models showed that there were no significant differences in other outcomes in between-group comparisons. Conclusions Five sessions of rPMS resulted in significant reduction in symptom severity, improvement in pinch strength and increase in SNAP amplitude. Future research should investigate the clinical utility of rPMS using a larger sample and longer treatment and follow-up durations.
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Bernstein DN, Kurucan E, Fear K, Hammert WC. Evaluating the Impact of Patient Social Deprivation on the Level of Symptom Severity at Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Presentation. Hand (N Y) 2022; 17:339-345. [PMID: 32511021 PMCID: PMC8984716 DOI: 10.1177/1558944720928487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: There is a paucity of research examining the impact of social deprivation on the level of symptom severity at presentation, including in common hand conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. We aimed to determine whether patient deprivation is associated with worse Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity (UE), Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression scores. Methods: Patients presenting to an academic hand clinic from December 2016 to December 2018 for a new patient visit for carpal tunnel syndrome completed PROMIS UE, PF, PI, and Depression Computer Adaptive Tests. Bivariate analyses were done to compare patient variables between the least and most deprived thirds, as measured by Area Deprivation Index (ADI), at the state (New York) and national levels. Multivariable linear regression was used to determine whether there was an association between social deprivation and PROMIS UE, PF, PI, and Depression scores. Results: All PROMIS domain scores were significantly worse in the most deprived cohort at the national level (P < .05) but not at the state level (P > .05). In multivariable regression at the national level, ADI values were associated with PROMIS UE (β = -0.06, P < .01) and PROMIS PI (β = .05, P < .01) but not PROMIS PF or PROMIS Depression. In multivariable regression at the state level, ADI values were associated with PROMIS UE (β = -0.79, P = .03) and PROMIS PI (β = 0.58, P < .05) but not PROMIS PF or PROMIS Depression. Conclusions: Higher levels of social deprivation are associated with worse PROMIS UE and PROMIS PI scores on both the state and national levels when initially seeking care for carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Warren C. Hammert
- University of Rochester Medical Center,
NY, USA,Warren C. Hammert, University of Rochester
Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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Harris-Adamson C, Eisen EA, Kapellusch J, Hegmann KT, Thiese MS, Dale AM, Evanoff B, Meyers AR, Bao S, Gerr F, Krause N, Rempel D. Occupational risk factors for work disability following carpal tunnel syndrome: a pooled prospective study. Occup Environ Med 2022; 79:442-451. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundAlthough recent studies have identified important risk factors associated with incident carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), risk factors associated with its severity have not been well explored.ObjectiveTo examine the associations between personal, workplace psychosocial and biomechanical factors and incident work disability among workers with CTS.MethodsBetween 2001 and 2010 five research groups conducted coordinated prospective studies of CTS and related work disability among US workers from various industries. Workers with prevalent or incident CTS (N=372) were followed for up to 6.4 years. Incident work disability was measured as: (1) change in work pace or work quality, (2) lost time or (3) job change following the development of CTS. Psychosocial factors were assessed by questionnaire. Biomechanical exposures were assessed by observation and measurements and included force, repetition, duty cycle and posture. HRs were estimated using Cox models.ResultsDisability incidence rates per 100 person-years were 33.2 for changes in work pace or quality, 16.3 for lost time and 20.0 for job change. There was a near doubling of risk for job change among those in the upper tertile of the Hand Activity Level Scale (HR 2.17; 95% CI 1.17 to 4.01), total repetition rate (HR 1.75; 95% CI 1.02 to 3.02), % time spent in all hand exertions (HR 2.20; 95% CI 1.21 to 4.01) and a sixfold increase for high job strain. Sensitivity analyses indicated attenuation due to inclusion of the prevalent CTS cases.ConclusionPersonal, biomechanical and psychosocial job factors predicted CTS-related disability. Results suggest that prevention of severe disability requires a reduction of both biomechanical and organisational work stressors.
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Sirisena D, Lim I, Sim S, Tong PY, Rajaratnam V. Can the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire Be Used as a Screening Tool Among a Potentially High-Risk Population in Singapore? J Hand Microsurg 2022; 14:39-46. [PMID: 35256827 PMCID: PMC8898153 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1710412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) causes significant morbidity with delayed diagnosis or management. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) is validated for monitoring CTS following diagnosis; however, it has not been trialed in a screening capacity. The study aimed to determine whether it can be utilized when screening a focused population in Singapore. Materials and Methods A single-center survey-based study was undertaken prospectively to identify whether positive symptoms could be identified among nursing and administrative staff. Results A total of 605 staff responded. Positive symptoms were identified in 317 (52.4%) of participants and 23 (3.8%) reported them to be severe. Functional limitations were detected in 157 (26.0%) of participants with 5 (0.8%) reporting these as severe. Positive symptoms (84.9%) and functional limitations (81.5%) were more prevalent among nursing staff. Cronbach's α scores (0.896 for symptoms and 0.84 for functional limitations) suggested good reliability in matching symptoms and functional limitations. Conclusion The BCTQ can potentially be implemented as a screening tool for CTS among those without a prior diagnosis. It has a greater depth of questioning with symptomatic and functional limitations considered, and in situations where a formal diagnosis is subsequently made, the same tool can be subsequently used for progression tracking pre- and post-treatment. Level of Evidence This is a Level II study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Sirisena
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ivan Lim
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shauna Sim
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pei-Yein Tong
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vaikunthan Rajaratnam
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Ulbrichtová R, Jakušová V, Osina O, Zibolenová J, Kuka S, Hudečková H. Association of the role of personal variables and nonoccupational risk factors for work-related carpal tunnel syndrome. Cent Eur J Public Health 2020; 28:274-278. [PMID: 33338362 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a6109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to identify personal variables and nonoccupational risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome and to analyse the strength of association of these factors. METHODS We performed a case-control study with 162 cases and 300 controls. We studied consecutive patients with an electrophysiologically confirmed diagnosis of symptomatic carpal tunnel syndrome. Univariate analysis was performed in the case group and control comparing them for presence of various risk factors. Multivariate analysis was carried out through logistic regression. RESULTS The mean BMI and age were greater in the case group than in the control. Multivariate analysis showed that BMI (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01-1.11) and arterial hypertension (OR = 4.63, 95% CI = 2.88-7.44) were the only factors significantly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. The age, cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking were at the edge of significance. CONCLUSIONS Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral neuropathy and has been related to occupational activities in some but not all studies. Clarifying this relationship has important implications for workers' compensation systems. Based on our findings, BMI and arterial hypertension are considered to be the most significant risk factors of carpal tunnel syndrome in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romana Ulbrichtová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Viera Jakušová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Oto Osina
- Clinic of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital in Martin and Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Jana Zibolenová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Stanislav Kuka
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Henrieta Hudečková
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
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Ulbrichtová R, Jakušová V, Švihrová V, Dvorštiaková B, Hudečková H. Validation of the Slovakian version of Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTSQ). ACTA MEDICA (HRADEC KRALOVE) 2020; 62:105-108. [PMID: 31663503 DOI: 10.14712/18059694.2019.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The most common occupational disease is carpal tunnel syndrome. The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Slovakian version of BCTSQ. METHODS The original questionnaire was translated into the Slovakian language by two expert translators. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to analyze the internal consistency of the questionnaire. Construction validity was evaluated by using Pearson's correlation coefficient and Spearman's rank correlation. The results were processed in the statistical program SPSS 24. The level of significance p > 0.05 was considered significant. To analyze the validity, a factor analysis of the BCTSQ and the correlation between BCTSQ and SF-36 were obtained. RESULTS A total of 32 employees at risk of local muscular overload completed the BCTSQ and Health Questionnaire SF-36. Cronbach's alpha for SSS was >0.8. The alpha coefficient for FSS was >0.9. The Pearson's coefficient and Spearman's rank correlation was >0.9 for each domain. Cronbach's alpha for SF-36 was >0.7 and the Pearson's coefficient and Spearman's rank correlation was >0.6 and p-values <0.001. CONCLUSIONS The questionnaire has sufficient reliability, validity and can be a suitable tool for the evaluation of subjective response of employees at the risk of local muscular overload, as well as of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romana Ulbrichtová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
| | - Viera Jakušová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Viera Švihrová
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Barbora Dvorštiaková
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Henrieta Hudečková
- Department of Public Health, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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Franklin GM, Evanoff B. Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Surgery or More Conservative Management? Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:12-13. [PMID: 31049992 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gary M Franklin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, Washington, USA
| | - Bradley Evanoff
- School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St Louis, MO
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The Economic Effect of Chronic Comorbidities in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Workers’ Compensation Claimants, Washington State. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 60:1128-1135. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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El-Helaly M, Balkhy HH, Vallenius L. Carpal tunnel syndrome among laboratory technicians in relation to personal and ergonomic factors at work. J Occup Health 2017; 59:513-520. [PMID: 28855446 PMCID: PMC5721273 DOI: 10.1539/joh.16-0279-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Work-related carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has been reported in different occupations, including laboratory technicians, so this study was carried out to determine the prevalence and the associated personal and ergonomic factors for CTS among laboratory technicians. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 279 laboratory technicians at King Fahd Hospital, Saudi Arabia, who filled in a self-administered questionnaire, including questions regarding their demographic criteria, occupational history, job tasks, workplace tools, ergonomic factors at work, and symptoms suggestive of CTS. Physical examinations and electrodiagnostic studies were carried out for those who had symptoms suggestive of CTS to confirm the diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed for both personal and physical factors in association with confirmed CTS among laboratory technicians. RESULTS The prevalence of CTS among the laboratory technicians was 9.7% (27/279). The following were the statistically significant risk factors for CTS among them: gender (all cases of CTS were female, P=0.00), arm/hand exertion (OR: 7.96; 95% CI: 1.84-34.33), pipetting (OR: 7.27; 95% CI: 3.15-16.78), repetitive tasks (OR: 4.60; 95% CI: 1.39-15.70), using unadjustable chairs or desks (OR: 3.35; 95% CI: 1.23-9.15), and working with a biosafety cabinet (OR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.11-5.59). CTS cases had significant longer work duration (17.9 ± 5.6 years) than CTS non-case (11.5 ± 7.4 yeas) with low OR (1.108). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates some personal and ergonomic factors associated with CTS among the laboratory technicians, including female gender, arm/hand exertion, pipetting, repetitive tasks, working with a biosafety cabinet, and an unadjusted workstation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Helaly
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, King Abdulaziz Medical City.,Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University
| | - Hanan H Balkhy
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, King Abdulaziz Medical City
| | - Laura Vallenius
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, King Abdulaziz Medical City
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Major ME, Vézina N. The Organization of Working Time: Developing an Understanding and Action Plan to Promote Workers' Health in a Seasonal Work Context: L'organisation temporelle du travail: la comprendre pour développer des actions favorisant la santé des travailleuses en contexte de travail saisonnier. New Solut 2017; 27:403-423. [PMID: 28823234 DOI: 10.1177/1048291117725712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite the health problems associated with irregular schedules and long working hours, few studies have focused on the temporal dimension of work in seasonal working contexts. Through the monitoring of sixteen seasonal workers in the crab-processing industry over a two-year period, this study aimed to better understand their working reality and to provide a detailed picture of the temporal dimension of seasonal work as experienced by these workers. Observations of the work activity, interviews, and analysis of official documents were carried out. The findings reveal that the organization of working time and working conditions are very restrictive. These constraints are linked not only to the work environment and management but also to various public policies and ministerial directives. Methodological elements essential for the study of the organization of working time have been identified and could contribute to a better understanding of temporal constraints experienced by seasonal workers. Résumé Malgré les problèmes de santé associés aux horaires non standards et aux longues heures de travail, peu d'études se sont attardées à dégager un portrait de la dimension temporelle du travail en contexte de travail saisonnier. Par le suivi de 16 travailleuses saisonnières de l'industrie de la transformation du crabe pendant deux années, cette étude visait à mieux comprendre leur réalité de travail et à dresser un portrait détaillé de la dimension temporelle du travail saisonnier tel que vécu par ces travailleuses. Des observations du travail, des entretiens et l'analyse de documents ont été réalisés. Les résultats révèlent une organisation temporelle et des conditions de travail fort contraignantes pour ces travailleuses liées, entre autres, à l'environnement et à la gestion du travail, mais également à diverses politiques publiques et consignes ministérielles. Des éléments méthodologiques essentiels pour l'étude des temps de travail ont également été identifiés et contribueront à mieux cerner les contraintes temporelles des situations de travail vécues par les travailleuses saisonnières.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole Vézina
- 2 14845 Université du Québec à Montréal , Canada, Québec
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Marcum J, Adams D. Work-related musculoskeletal disorder surveillance using the Washington state workers' compensation system: Recent declines and patterns by industry, 1999-2013. Am J Ind Med 2017; 60:457-471. [PMID: 28295479 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are common and place large economic and social burdens on workers and their communities. We describe recent WMSD trends and patterns of WMSD incidence among the Washington worker population by industry. METHODS We used Washington State's workers' compensation compensable claims from 1999 to 2013 to describe incidence and cost of WMSD claims by body part and diagnosis, and to identify high-risk industries. RESULTS WMSD claim rates declined by an estimated annual 5.4% (95% CI: 5.0-5.9%) in Washington State from 1999 to 2013, but WMSDs continue to account for over 40% of all compensable claims. High risk industries identified were Construction; Transportation and Warehousing; Health Care and Social Assistance; and Manufacturing. CONCLUSIONS As documented in other North American contexts, this study describes an important decline in the incidence of WMSDs. The Washington State workers' compensation system provides a rich data source for the surveillance of WMSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Marcum
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; Washington Department of Labor and Industries; Olympia Washington
| | - Darrin Adams
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; Washington Department of Labor and Industries; Olympia Washington
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