Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026
Screening of Axonal Degeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasonography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Published on: January 11, 2019
The Impact of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome on Work Productivity and Functional Outcomes in Office Workers: A Comprehensive
Ümit Yalçin1, Ömer Faruk Bucak, Çiğdem Çinar
1From the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic, Çam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey (Ü.Y., Ö.F.B.); and Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey (Ç.Ç.).
Objective:
This study aimed to examine the association between carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) severity, work productivity, and functional outcomes in office workers.
Methods:
In this cross-sectional study, 194 office workers were classified for CTS severity via clinical and electromyographic criteria. Work productivity was assessed with the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI-GH), and pain and function, with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ).
Results:
CTS severity showed strong positive correlations with WPAI ( r = 0.951), BCTQ ( r > 0.84), and VAS ( r = 0.770) scores ( P < 0.001). Severe CTS was associated with >60% productivity loss, higher absenteeism, and greater functional impairment compared to mild or no CTS.
Conclusions:
CTS in office workers is linked to substantial productivity decline and occupational disruption. Early detection, ergonomic measures, and BMI control may reduce individual disability and socioeconomic burden.
