NIOSHTIC-2 Publications Search
Occupational epidemiology of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Authors
Morgenstern H; Graves M; Kelsh MA
Source
Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 1994 Aug; :1-134
NIOSHTIC No.
00228269
Abstract
The incidence of symptoms suggestive of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) among trade occupations and office workers was determined. Work related factors, medical conditions, and CTS diagnostic indicators were also evaluated. Data entry operators, court reporters, clerical staff, carpenters, and sprinkler fitters were selected to represent a wide range of ergonomic exposures. The prevalence of symptoms consistent with CTS was examined among 529 county office workers, and 667 active trade workers and 136 retired trade workers from two unions. Clerks and technical staff had the highest symptom prevalence. The prevalence of hand/wrist symptoms suggestive of CTS was 12% and 17% for carpenters and sprinkler fitters. Among office workers the odds ratios for hours of keyboard use were higher among court reporters and data entry staff than among clerks and technical staff. The prevalence of CTS symptoms increased for up to 10 years of work experience, but decreased thereafter. The number of hours worked per week was inversely associated with CTS symptoms. Power tool and hand tool use were modestly associated with CTS symptoms; however, exposure response trends were not consistent. Job demand and job satisfaction were consistently associated with hand/wrist symptoms, neck/shoulder pain, and low back pain.
Keywords
NIOSH-Grant; Musculoskeletal-system-disorders; Physical-stress; Office-workers; Keyboard-operators; Construction-workers; Repetitive-work; Cumulative-trauma-disorders; Hand-tools; Power-tools
Contact
Epidemiology UCLA School of Public Health 405 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90024
Publication Date
19940822
Document Type
Final Grant Report
Funding Amount
44442
Funding Type
Grant
Fiscal Year
1994
NTIS Accession No.
PB95-269866
NTIS Price
A08
Identifying No.
Grant-Number-R03-OH-02765
NIOSH Division
OEP
Priority Area
Musculoskeletal-system-disorders
Source Name
Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
State
CA
Performing Organization
University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
Page last reviewed: May 11, 2023
Content source:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Education and Information Division