Occupational disease surveillance: Carpal tunnel syndrome

Article Abstract:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) includes symptoms of pain, numbness and weakness in the muscles which are innervated by branches of the median nerve. The syndrome occurs when the median nerve is entrapped as it passes deep to the muscles and tendons in the forearm through an anatomic passage in the wrist, the carpal tunnel. Without medical or surgical intervention, CTS leads to discomfort and disability. The condition usually manifests itself in workers who perform repetitive tasks, such as typists, musicians, carpenters, housekeepers and grocery checkers. There is no data on the frequency of work-related CTS in the general work force that is considered reliable, and even a standard definition for work-related cases is lacking. In 1988, the California Occupational Health Program (COHP) surveyed health care providers to measure the occurrence CTS in Santa Clara County, California. COHP identified 1,698 health care providers practicing in specialty areas that are relevant to CTS treatment. Survey respondents reported a total of 7,214 CTS patients during 1987. Survey data also indicated that 47 percent of these cases may have been work-related, supporting the hypothesis that CTS cases associated with work are under-reported.

Health aspects, Injuries, California, column, Median nerve

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Occupational and environmental medicine

Article Abstract:

Exposure to chemicals in the workplace appears to be a substantial cause of adult asthma. These chemicals include paint, dust, oils and vapors. It may be difficult to link workplace exposure to asthma because the symptoms may be delayed and may not resolve promptly once exposure is discontinued. More than half of those affected end up changing jobs. Low back pain is also tied to the workplace, and accounts for one-quarter of workers' compensation claims. Actions such as heavy lifting or recurrent twisting or bending can damage the soft tissues of the back. Herniation of a disk can cause more severe pain. Back belts have been promoted as a preventive device but there is little evidence that they are effective. People with back pain can respond to a leave of absence and a comprehensive rehabilitation program. However, if they return to the same job, they risk a recurrence. Blood lead levels have dropped dramatically in the US at the same time research shows high blood lead levels are linked to juvenile delinquency.

Measurement, Causes of, Risk factors, Asthma, Work-related injuries, Work related injuries, Backache, Back pain, Lead in the body

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Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in a General Population

Article Abstract:

About 20% of people with pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands may have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS is an overuse injury caused by repetitive motions in the hands and wrists. Researchers in Sweden surveyed 2,466 people, and examined 81% of them. Fourteen percent of respondents had pain, numbness, or tingling in the region of the median nerve of the hand. Upon examination, only about 3% of the surveyed people had clinically or electrophysiologically confirmed CTS.

Sweden, Statistical Data Included

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