Impact of Occupations and Hobbies on the Severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An Electrodiagnostic Perspective.

Abstract

This study describes the clinical and electrodiagnostic (EDX) findings as well as occupations and hobbies in 613 patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Patients with moderate, moderately severe, or severe CTS based on EDX criteria were included. The most common occupations included workers in offices, construction/maintenance, and assembly lines. The occupation severity scores were greatest in garment workers, musicians, and landscapers. Regardless of occupation, patient age and occupation duration were significantly correlated ( P < 0.001). Gardeners had the highest average severity score of the hobbies, followed by painters, those who sew, and individuals who perform house chores. Physicians should be aware of particular occupations and hobbies associated with a greater risk of severe CTS and offer modifications to their patients' work duties and hobbies to minimize the likelihood of developing severe CTS.