Prevalence and risk factors associated with self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) among office workers in Kuwait

Abstract

BackgroundThe prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is not well understood in many Arabian Peninsula countries. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with self-reported CTS in Kuwait.FindingsA cross-sectional, self-administered survey of CTS-related symptoms was used in this study. Multivariate logistic regression was also used to estimate adjusted odds ratios for factors of interest. Participants in this study were adult office workers in Kuwait (n = 470, 55.6% males), who worked in companies employing more than 50 people. Self-reported CTS was reported in 18.7% of the group (88/470). CTS was significantly associated with the following demographic factors: female gender, obesity and number of comorbid conditions. Self-identification of CTS was also associated with key symptoms and impairment in daily activities (e.g., wrist pain, numbness, weakness, night pain, difficulty carrying bags, difficulty grasping [Chi-Square Test for Association: P < 0.05 for all symptoms/activities]). However, symptoms such as wrist pain, weakness, and functional disabilities were also frequently reported among those who do not self report CTS (range: 12.1%–38.2%).ConclusionsPrevalence of self-reported CTS among office workers in Kuwait is 18.7%, and the risk factors for CTS in this population included female gender, obesity and number of related comorbidities. The frequency of symptoms in the sample who did not self report CTS suggest that CTS may be under-recognized, however further research is required to assess the prevalence of clinically diagnosed CTS.

Smoking and carpal tunnel syndrome: A meta‐analysis

“…and Table A3 supplementary material, available online). Two cross‐sectional studies and 1 cohort study were conducted among volunteers. Among those studies, 1 also defined CTS based on self‐report and reported estimates that were not controlled for confounders.…”

“…Two cross‐sectional studies and 1 cohort study were conducted among volunteers. Among those studies, 1 also defined CTS based on self‐report and reported estimates that were not controlled for confounders. A cross‐sectional study defined CTS by self‐report, and another reported unadjusted estimate without quantitative results to estimate an odds ratio.…”

Effects of Netbook and Tablet Usage Postures on the Development of Fatigue, Discomfort and Pain

“…Further study on the effects of tablet usage based on an ergonomic point of view is essential to prevent more people suffering from musculoskeletal complaints, such as low back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Recent studies reported that the prevalence of CTS in the general population due to entrapment of the median nerve at the wrist is estimated to be around 5-18% [2,3], where office workers seem to be mostly affected.…”

Motor Examination in the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

“…This is a high percentage of males compared with some studies, but younger male laborers are also considered at risk for the development of CTS and so we assume our population was representative of most CTS populations. [45][46][47][48] We also did not always have information regarding severity of CTS according to examination and NCT/ EMG. Furthermore, the testing was done in different places by different examiners so it is not clear what value there would be to a comparison.…”