A Study of Several Performance Measures of Workers with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Abstract

Objective measures of anthropometry, strength, range-of-motion, muscle activity, and task performance, and subjective ratings of pain were observed in a group of individuals diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). These measures were compared to a control population showing no symptoms of CTS. Results indicate that individuals with CTS had significantly lower values on some strength tests, less range of motion on several measures, and reduced performance on a simulated task than did the control group. Ratings of pain and distress for the CTS group were also significantly higher than the control group. Occupational and personality factors associated with the CTS group were also identified and discussed.

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