Use of vibration testing in the early evaluation of workers with carpal tunnel syndrome

Article Abstract:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a neurological condition characterized by pain, numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the hand. CTS can be caused by occupational activities that require repetitive finger movements, such as keyboard typing, or activities that expose the worker to continuous vibration, such as operating a jack hammer. It is important to diagnose CTS early to minimize the severity of the condition. One method for diagnosing nerve damage involves vibration testing, which measures the ability to feel vibration in the damaged area. This article describes the use of vibration testing (vibrometry) in diagnosing workers with symptoms of CTS. The workers were divided into four different groups based on occupation: group 1, light electronic assemblers using tweezers, torque guns, or soldering devices; group 2, meat processors using powered cutting knives and hooks; group 3, keyboard operators; and group 4, a control group with a variety of different occupations. Physicians examined the workers for signs of nerve damage to the arms and hands; the workers completed a questionnaire describing their symptoms; and the workers underwent vibrometry. A definite diagnosis of CTS was made using the well-established method of electromyography (a measurement of the electrical activity in a muscle) and the results were compared with those obtained from vibration testing. The results of the study showed that the workers with CTS had the least ability to feel vibration, the workers in the control group were able to feel vibration without difficulty, and the workers with early symptoms of CTS were in between. The average cost of performing vibration testing is 20 dollars. It is concluded that vibration testing provides a simple, noninvasive, cost-effective method for the early diagnosis of CTS. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Injuries, Diagnosis, Repetition strain injury, Cumulative trauma disorders, Nerves, Peripheral, Peripheral nerves, Vibration tests

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Ridge detection tactility deficits associated with carpal tunnel syndrome

Article Abstract:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a nerve disorder that affects functioning in the hand and wrist. It varies in severity and is a major cause of absenteeism and compensation claims. CTS may also affect tactile abilities (involving the sense of touch). This may in turn affect the ability of a worker to perform tasks requiring precise movements with the fingers. Ridge detection tests are often used to detect a loss of tactile abilities. The test involves touching a disc containing a ridge. When the disc is rotated, the ridge increases in height. The height at which the subject can feel the ridge with a fingertip is measured. This test was performed on 16 hands of subjects with CTS and 30 hands of normal subjects. Results showed ridge detection thresholds were 0.08 millimeters (mm) for normal hands and 0.20 mm for CTS hands. Age was not correlated with ridge detection threshold. These results indicate that workers with CTS have a decreased ability to detect ridges on a surface, which may indicate that people with CTS have a decreased ability to perform tasks requiring precise use of the fingers. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Testing, Complications and side effects, Occupational diseases, Touch

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Personal and occupational factors associated with carpal tunnel syndrome

Article Abstract:

Characteristics of workers in aircraft engine factories suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome.

HEALTH SERVICES, Aircraft engines and engine parts, Health aspects, Case studies, Aircraft engine industry, Vibration, Vibration (Physics), carpal tunnel syndrome

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