Work-related risk factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Majmaah University female touchscreen users

This study aimed to explore the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms among female touchscreen users at Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia and to make a comparison for the wrist range of motion between probable CTS and non-CTS female touchscreen users.

Two hundred and twenty-two female touchscreen users were enrolled in the present study. Among this cohort, fifty-two were academic members, 40 were employees and 130 were undergraduates. A Digital Inclinometer device was used to assess ROM of the wrist movements. A computer-based questionnaire, Phalen's test, and Tinel's sign were used to investigate the presence of CTS symptoms. The study was conducted between November 2018 and February 2019 at Majmaah University.

The prevalence of probable CTS was 34.2% among touchscreen users; the percent of probable CTS was significantly higher in undergraduates compared to other touchscreen users. There was a significant reduction in wrist flexion between the tested groups.

Female touchscreen users at Majmaah University tended to have a high-risk for CTS. Wrist ROM measurements, particularly wrist flexion, could be a beneficial indicator for anticipating deviations in wrist posture after long-term touchscreen use. It is necessary to consider the job nature, age, BMI, and duration of using touchscreen as risk factors for CTS symptoms.