Many work injuries that are reported in newspapers revolve around serious injuries like brain or back injuries. In the worst cases, employees are killed as result of dangers in their workplace.
Another type of workplace injury that can be serious is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This type of injury typically appears as a result of repetitive motions. Many people will automatically assume that carpel tunnel syndrome is linked to individuals who are constantly on a computer. However, carpel tunnel syndrome is especially common in industries that require employees to work in an assembly line.
How Can You Tell if You Have Developed CTS?
The NINDS has also given some examples of symptoms that are typically associated with CTS:
- Tingling or numbness in the hand and fingers
- Inability to grip small objects or make a fist
- Fingers that feel like they are swollen, when they are not
- Loss of muscles in the thumb (typically when CTS goes untreated)
Developing carpel tunnel syndrome can seriously affect an employee’s ability to work. One survey showed that estimated cost of CTS is approximately $30,000 for each employee. While the research is from a few years back, the cost could have increased as diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome includes a doctor examination and laboratory tests.
There are ways to prevent employees from developing CTS. Often, providing time for employees to stretch and rest can help decrease the chances of CTS. There are also ways for employers to redesign workstations so that workers can work in a more natural position.
Visit the NINDS website for more information on carpal tunnel syndrome.
