Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a prevalent workplace injury many don’t take seriously enough. Did you know wrist and finger injuries can reduce worker productivity by as much as 56%? And lead to both worker disability and costly medical bills?
Keep reading to learn about the most common causes and what you can do to reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome in your workplace.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition that results from pressure on the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. It often causes tingling, numbness, or pain in the hand and fingers.
How common is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? It affects about 1 in 10 people, and according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), an estimated 3 million workers suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome each year.
Who Is at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, but you’re at greater risk if you’re female and have diabetes or hypothyroidism. Other risk factors include pregnancy, obesity, repetitive wrist movements, and arthritis.
In addition, workers in the following professions are more likely to experience wrist injuries like CTS.
- Construction workers
- Factory workers
- Farmers
- Cooks and bakers
- Nurses and other healthcare providers
- Plumbers
- Office workers who use computers all day long
Investing in employee safety now can reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Contact McClure Ergonomics Today to Schedule a Professional Risk Assessment!
The Most Common Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the Workplace
Because carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive strain, it’s one of the most common workplace injuries. The top workplace-related risk factors include the following.
- Repetitive hand movements. For example, using power tools for long periods
- Frequent hand use. Examples include painting, cooking, and gardening
- Poor ergonomics. Such as, using an improperly positioned keyboard and mouse
- Prolonged hand gripping. For instance, working with tools such as pliers or hammers for long periods
How to Reduce the Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at Work
You can help your employees reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome by encouraging them to do the following at work.
- Take frequent breaks. Experts recommend taking a break every 20 minutes to stretch the arms, wrists, and fingers.
- Use ergonomically designed keyboards, mice, and other computer accessories.
- Learn to touch type (typing without looking at the keyboard).
- Consider wearing gloves with gel pads for extra comfort.
- Change positions often (every 15 minutes).
- Use tools with adjustable handles or levers so you don’t have to exert as much force while performing tasks that require precise movements.
- Develop good body mechanics when using your hands — keep them straight while typing on a computer keyboard. Try not to bend at the wrist when reaching for something above shoulder level.
Training, printed guidelines, updated equipment, and workplace safety rules can all play a role in helping employees adopt proper CTS-prevention techniques.
Do Your Part to Reduce the Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The best way to deal with carpal tunnel syndrome is to understand the symptoms and take preventative measures daily. Early detection and care can eliminate the risk of permanent injury and further discomfort for those in your company’s workspaces.
Are your workers at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Call McClure Ergonomics to Conduct a Risk Assessment Today!
Protect Your Workers and Your Business from Costly Injuries