[Epidemiology of occupationally-caused carpal tunnel syndrome in the province of Alicante, Spain 1996-2004]

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the major health problems of workers who perform tasks entailing intense manual stress and repetitive movements of the upper limbs. The implementation of regulations and social changes, as well as the incorporation of women into the working world bring to bear the need of ascertaining whether any changes have taken place in the pattern of occurrence of this syndrome and in the factors conditioning the same. The objectives of this study are to know the frequency with which this syndrome occurs in the province of Alicante, to discover the work-related characteristics of those individuals affected thereby, to analyze the procedure followed for treatment and rehabilitation and to delve into the situation of those affected upon their return to work.

Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study. The population studies was comprised of all those workers for whom an occupational disease report was remitted to the Safety and Health Commission within the 1996-2004 period.

Results: A total of 266 reports of occupational disease due to carpal tunnel syndrome were filed. The incidence rate was 4.2 cases per 100,000 workers. A total of 62.8% of the cases were females, 25% of whom were under 30 years of age. The average length of employment at the company was 132.3 months.

Conclusions: The risk factors most often mentioned are performing repetitive movements and activities requiring manual strength.