Evaluation of WorkRelated Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Authors: Robert A Werner

Publish Date: 2006/05/17

Volume: 16, Issue: 2, Pages: 201-216

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Abstract

Objectives Carpal tunnel syndrome CTS is common in the industrial setting but there are still some advocates who argue that CTS is not a work related problem There are also controversies about the proper way to establish the diagnosis and whether screening for CTS in the industrial setting is warranted Methods A comprehensive literature review Results The literature does demonstrate that the prevalence of CTS in the industrial setting is significantly higher than in the general population Numerous epidemiologic studies have identified independent risk factors which include repetitiveness of work forceful exertions mechanical stress posture and vibration as well as several personal cofactors The strength of these associations are discussed The diagnostic criteria for establishing workrelated CTS are discussed as well as the effectiveness of various screening methods that are commonly used in the workplace The sensitivity and specificity of nerve conduction studies to establish or confirm the diagnosis of CTS is presented along with normative data for the industrial worker Conclusions CTS has both workrelated and personal risk factors The diagnosis is best established using a combination of history symptom distribution and confirmation using the relative latency of median sensory testing using normative data Screening for CTS in the industrial setting has questionable benefit

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