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Relationship between carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist angle in computer workers
Chin-Wei Liu1, Tien-Wen Chen, Ming-Cheng Wang
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
|January 15, 2004
Summary
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) incidence was 16.7% in computer workers. Maintaining a wrist extension angle greater than 20 degrees while typing significantly increases the risk of developing this nerve entrapment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Occupational Health
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common entrapment neuropathy.
- Computer workers are at risk due to prolonged keyboard use.
- The specific correlation between wrist posture and CTS incidence needs further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of CTS in computer workers.
- To evaluate the relationship between typical symptoms, nerve conduction studies, and CTS.
- To assess the impact of wrist extension angle during typing on CTS development.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 45 computer workers (over 6 hours daily use).
- Data collection included questionnaires (age, employment, symptoms), physical examinations (Tinel's sign, Phalen's test), and nerve conduction studies.
- Measurement of maximal wrist extension angle during keyboard typing.
Main Results:
- The incidence of CTS among computer workers was 16.7% (15 of 90 hands).
- Electrodiagnostic evidence of CTS was found in 12 subjects, with varying hand involvement.
- A significant correlation was identified between CTS development and a wrist extension angle exceeding 20 degrees while typing.
Conclusions:
- Computer workers exhibit a notable incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Wrist extension angle during typing is a significant predisposing factor for CTS.
- Maintaining a neutral wrist posture may help reduce the risk of developing CTS in computer users.