Carpal tunnel syndrome decreasing, but not in all industries
Work-related carpal tunnel syndrome injuries have decreased over time, according to a study recently published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. However, compared with clerical industries, the labor industry showed a significantly higher incidence of work-related carpal tunnel syndrome.
The researchers used national employment, demographic and injury data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2003 to 2018 to evaluate whether clerical or labor-type work is more associated with the risk for developing work-related carpal tunnel.
The researchers found that the work-related syndrome decreased over time. However, the labor industry showed an increase, and the manufacturing industry had the highest incidence of work-related carpal tunnel syndrome within the labor industry.
“This study is an important reminder that carpal tunnel is a primary contributor to hand and upper extremity pain in both the clerical and manufacturing workplaces, and that ergonomic conditions for workers in both industries should be equally considered,” the researchers said.
Source: HealthDay News
