CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME: AN OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE

Abstract

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common problem in certain occupations. Many etiological factors have been suggested for CTS which include repetitive, prolonged hand and intensive activities, forceful exertions, awkward or static posture, vibration, temperature extremes and localised mechanical stress. The references were taken from Grays` anatomy and B.D.Chourasiya which we are supplemented by systematic searches on Google and Pubmed with keywords, occupation incidence, carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive activities, several specic occupations including cutting metal, dealing with meat and sh processing, slaughter house, manufacturing and construction workers, musicians, repetitive industrial work groups, frozen, food factory employees, grocery store workers, footwear factory workers, etc. In summary, this study concludes that certain occupations involving wrist activities increases the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. It is recommended that prolonged exposure to highly repetitive action of wrist (i.e. exion and extension) movements should be avoided.