Does the use of electronic devices provoke the carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms and functional impairment? A cross-sectional study

Abstract

IntroductionAs electronic devices usage escalates, public's concerns are raised on whether specific hand activities while using electronics can lead to median nerve problems. Aim of the workThis study was conducted to assess the association, prevalence and risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms among electronic devices users. Patients and methodsThis study was conducted among a general population of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with a total of 800 distributed Arabic self-administered questionnaire including the socio-demographic, patterns of electronic devices use and a standardized questionnaire “Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ).” Common risk factors were excluded, such as diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, gout, current pregnancy, cervical and hand problems. ResultsThe response rate was 88.9% and the male: female was 0.5:1. Data analysis revealed that nearly 50% of all participants were moderately sever symptomatic. Out of which 42.4% were medically free with no apparent risk factors for CTS, and the rest had severe symptoms. Symptoms suggestive of CTS were significantly associated with younger age, female gender, higher body mass index (BMI) and occupation. However, there was no proven association with the patterns of electronic devices use. The functional status was significantly associated with age, gender, BMI and occupation. ConclusionThere was no significant association between the patterns of electronic devices use and CTS symptoms. The high prevalence of CTS symptoms necessitates awareness programs, especially among the young population. Although this work did not prove the association, further studies with confirmatory clinical testing are recommended.