ErgoInfo
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway formed by the carpal (wrist) bones and ligaments. The carpal tunnel contains the median nerve and flexor tendons that bend the fingers and thumb. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a disorder characterized by tingling and pain in the hand and fingers due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist.
Ergonomic Risk Factors
FORCE
-
Forceful exertions (e.g. lifting,
carrying, gripping, etc.) -
Contact stress
-
Mechanical stress
-
Glove use
-
Grip type
POSTURE
-
Awkward postures (e.g. flexion,
extension, radial, and ulnar
deviations of the wrist) -
Static postures
TEMPERATURE
-
Cold temperatures have been linked to the development of CTS by affecting nerve conduction, blood circulation, manual dexterity, and grip strength.
VIBRATION
-
Extended vibration exposure is linked to an increased swelling of the tendon sheaths
-
Hand arm vibration
-
Whole body vibration
inadequate
recovery time
-
Similar muscle actions performed multiple times in a short period
-
Sustained muscle contractions without enough rest
-
May lead to fatigue, weakness or altered movement patterns
Combination Effect
-
Many or all of the risk factors act in synergy to increase the risk of CTS
Specific Recommendations for Prevention
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Avoid contact stress where possible (e.g. resting wrists on hard surfaces)
-
Decrease external forces
-
Take regular breaks
-
Maintain neutral hand/wrist postures
-
Avoid prolonged exposure to vibration
-
Minimize forceful grasps (e.g. pinch grips)
-
Monitor use of gloves that may affect force required
-
Evaluate handle design options
For industry/workplace specific recommendations contact an OHCOW Ergonomist.
Video Resources
Video: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Anatomy, Symptoms & Diagnosis
Video: Possible Causes & Prevention
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