title: An examination of self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in hand therapists, protective and corrective measures and job satisfaction.
abstract: Based on the physical nature of their work, hand therapists could be at risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The objective of this study was to examine the incidence of self-reported CTS symptoms among hand therapists and the corrective/protective measures utilized in response to symptoms. Additionally, the relationship of CTS symptoms to job satisfaction was explored. A survey was conducted on a sample of 129 hand therapists. The results demonstrated that 57 (46%) hand therapists had self-reported symptoms of CTS. Thirty eight (66.7%) engaged in protective/corrective measures ranging from conservative treatment to work modifications to surgery. No significant relationship between CTS symptoms and job dissatisfaction was found. Descriptive statistics were reported on the effects of age, experience and reasons for job dissatisfaction. In conclusion, these findings suggest a seemingly high frequency of self-reported CTS symptoms in hand therapists, the utilization and effectiveness of certain interventions, and a lack of association between CTS symptoms and job satisfaction.
authors.affiliation: Cooper Health System, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, 900 Centennial Blvd., suite A, Voorhees, NJ 08043, USA. Tel.: +1 609 325 6674; Fax: +1 609 325 6678.
authors.forename: Daniel S.
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Bash
authors.forename: Ruth S.
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Farber