Affiliations: 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 | Temple University, College of Allied Health
Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy, 3307 North Broad Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA. Tel.: +1 215 707 4880; Fax: +1 215 707 7656
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%) symptoms of CTS. Thirty eight (66.7%)
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.
