PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTOR OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME AMONG WORKERS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

Introduction: In terms of lost-work time, restricted workdays and rehabilitation, one of the most costly occupational musculoskeletal disorders is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Aim of work: determination of CTS prevalence and evaluation of some personal and occupational risk factors among construction workers. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 116 cases were enrolled. A questionnaire was used to assess socio-demographic data, and occupational history. CTS was assessed by symptoms on the Katz hand diagram and physical examination. Phalen’s test was done for all participants. Results: According to this study, the prevalence of CTS was 27.6% among workers in construction industry. The rate of CTS was significantly higher among electricians than in other workers (P < 0.05). The risk of developing CTS increase with age ≥ 30 years and work duration ≥ 5 years. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that construction workers are at an increased risk of CTS, so awareness should be raised and interventions should specifically target this risk group.