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Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow in computer keyboard operators.
Nahid K Nainzadeh1, Svetlana Ilizarov, George Piligian
1Mount Sinai Medical Center Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029-6574, USA.
Work (Reading, Mass.)
|June 16, 2011
Summary
Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is common in computer keyboard operators (CKOs) suspected of upper limb nerve issues. This study found UNE in 71% of CKOs undergoing electrodiagnosis, highlighting its significance.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Occupational Medicine
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Computer keyboard operators (CKOs) frequently present with symptoms suggestive of focal upper limb neuropathies.
- Electrodiagnosis (EDX) is a key tool for identifying nerve conditions in the upper limbs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) in computer keyboard operators (CKOs).
- To assess the utility of electrophysiologic criteria in diagnosing UNE among CKOs with suspected focal upper limb neuropathies.
Main Methods:
- A case series involving 148 computer keyboard operators (CKOs) referred for electrodiagnosis (EDX) over a four-year period.
- Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies, including segmental ulnar nerve assessments, were performed.
- Patients provided subjective descriptions of their workstation setup and equipment.
Main Results:
- Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) was diagnosed in 105 out of 148 (71%) computer keyboard operators (CKOs).
- The findings were based on electrophysiologic criteria during EDX testing.
Conclusions:
- Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is a significant diagnosis in computer keyboard operators (CKOs) presenting with suspected focal upper limb neuropathies.
- Clinicians should consider UNE alongside carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and routinely inquire about UNE symptoms in CKOs undergoing evaluation.
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