Risk factors of carpal tunnel syndrome among food-packing workers in Karanganyar

Abstract

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, suffers pressure or is squeezed in the wrist. The results may be pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up to the arm. This study aimed to examine the risk factors i.e age, sex, work period and repetitive movements toward Carpal Tunnel Syndrome complaints among food-packing workers in Karanganyar. The study was conducted in October to December 2014 that used analytic observational design with cross sectional study. Samples were 50 of 67 food-packing workers in Jaten Karanganyar industrial area as taken by using simple random sampling technique. Data were analyzed using chi square and multivariate logistic regression. Results showed that age and sex had significant relation with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and age was the most influential factor 24 times to increased risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (p value = 0.057, Exp. β = 24.965).