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Occupational risk factors for radial tunnel syndrome in industrial workers
Y Roquelaure1, G Raimbeau, C Dano
1Centre de consultation de pathologie professionnelle, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Anger, France. yvroquelaure@chu-angers.fr
Objectives:
The aim of the study was to evaluate both nonoccupational and occupational factors associated with radial tunnel syndrome (RTS) among industrial workers in 3 large plants.
Methods:
Twenty-one cases of RTS were compared with 21 referents matched for gender, age, and plant. RTS was associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in 9 cases. Past medical history, household activities, and ergonomic and organizational characteristics of the job were analyzed.
Results:
The study found 3 occupational risk factors for RTS. Exertion of force of over 1 kg [odds ratio (OR) 9.1, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.4-56.9] more than 10 times per hour was the main biomechanical risk factor. Prolonged static load applied to the hand during work was strongly associated with RTS (OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.2-29.9). Work posture with the elbow fully extended (0-45 degrees) was associated with RTS (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.0-25.0). Full extension of the elbow, associated with a twisted posture of the forearm, stressed the radial nerve at the elbow. However, personal activities, household chores, and sport and leisure activities were not associated with RTS.
Conclusions:
The study confirms that RTS occurs in workers performing hard manual labor that requires forceful and repetitive movements involving elbow extension and forearm prosupination.