When workplaces aren't ergonomically correct, it can result in cumulative trauma disorders, also known as repetitive stress, strain or injury disorders. They are musculoskeletal problems that afflict muscles, tendons, nerves and bones. In general, the injuries are caused by improper posture, sustained repetitions of movements, vibration, temperature extremes or some combination of these. CTS is caused by repetitive bending, flexing or twisting the wrists, such as from typing. It can cause swelling in tendons in the wrist and ultimately damage to the median nerve, which runs down the arm and through a channel in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.
Early symptoms are painful tingling sensations in one or both hands.
Later, the fingers feel numb, tingling sensations come more frequently and the power to squeeze weakens. In severe cases, there is paralysis and permanent loss of sensation. Diane MacKenzie, director of occupational therapy at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital on Riggins Road, treats people with CTS and other injuries of the upper extremities, which includes the whole arm and hand. People who type a lot, such as data-entry operators, clerks and programmers, make up the greatest number of her patients. Carpal tunnel is more commonly seen in women because they have jobs where they type.