Symptoms and Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Computer Users

Authors

• Keerthi Naik, Nurse educator, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
• Leena Sequira, Associate Professor and Principal, Manipal School of Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, IndiaFollow
• Roseminu Varghese, Former Lecturer, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Background and Objective:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common occupational health issue, especially for people who use computers for extended periods of time and make repetitive wrist and hand motions. Concerns about the onset of CTS symptoms and related risk factors have been raised by the increasing use of computers in professional settings. For early intervention and prevention in high-risk populations, it is essential to comprehend its clinical presentation and occupational risks. The objectives of this study were to assess the symptoms and identify the risk factors for CTS and explore the association between demographics, risk factors, and CTS symptoms in computer users.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive survey design was used, and data were collected from 260 computer users at an educational institution in Udupi District, Karnataka, through systematic random sampling. Participants had at least six months of work experience, were over the age of 20 years, and worked on computers for more than four hours per day. A demographic proforma and a self-reported, semi-structured questionnaire on CTS symptoms and risk factors were used to gather data. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 16.0 was used to analyze the data.

Results: Out of 260 participants, 100 (38.5%) reported experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.” Wrist pain (27%), numbness in the fingers (20%), hand weakness (73%), shaking the hands for relief (33%), and a cold sensation in the hand (20%) were among the most frequently reported symptoms. Age and years of computer use were significantly associated with hand weakness.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of implementing ergonomic interventions and regular exercise in the workplace to reduce the incidence of CTS and promote increased productivity among computer users.

Recommended Citation

Naik, Keerthi; Sequira, Leena; and Varghese, Roseminu (2026) "Symptoms and Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Computer Users," Manipal Journal of Nursing and Health Sciences: Vol. 11: Iss. 2, .
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55889/2582-7979.1369
Available at: https://impressions.manipal.edu/mjnhs/vol11/iss2/9