577 Risk Factors Associated with the Reported Scores on Symptoms Severity and Functional Limitations Scales of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Aim We aim to identify risk factors associated with higher scores of CTS symptoms severity and functional limitations on the BCTQ. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted among 366 female participants. The data was mainly collected using the BCTQ. Demographics and risk factors of CTS were added to the study's complete questionnaire; Risk factors included: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), hypothyroidism, number of pregnancies, usage of Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs), use of smartphones and keyboards. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Most participants were in their thirties (44%) and housewives. RA, DM, hypothyroidism, and pregnancy were associated with reporting symptoms and functional limitations on BCTQ. OCPs and smartphone use were associated with functional limitations only. Conclusions Different risk factors are associated with reporting symptoms and functional limitations of CTS on the BCTQ. For example, RA, DM, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, OCPs and smartphone use have all been found statistically affect the outcome of the BCTQ in this study. Clinical confirmation of CTS diagnosis is required in future studies to make sure that these symptoms and functional limitations are associated with CTS pathology itself rather than other risk factors pathologies for proper targeted treatment plans and outcomes.