WORK-RELATED CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME: CURRENT CONCEPTS

Abstract

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has been the subject of a growing number of studies, most of them leading to contradictory outcomes. The dual aim of this paper is to provide the foundation for a thorough understanding of CTS history, and to emphasize the strong relationship between upper extremity activities and occupational CTS. Evidence of work relatedness, as well as contradictory opinions regarding the role of job-related risk factors on CTS development are addressed. It is proposed that a thorough understanding of the factors that intervene in the task-CTS causal relationship, as well as the assessment of workers' adaptation capacity will lead to ergonomic interventions that will ensure a reduction in the number of work-related CTS cases.