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As many as ten million Americans yearly suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS occurs when the carpal ligament in your wrist compresses a major nerve in the hand. This causes arm weakness, numbness, and a tingling or burning sensation in the hand. Repeated hand motions and awkward hand positions eventually compress the central nerve in your wrist, causing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Employees working in specific jobs are more predisposed to the condition. As such, they must take extra precautions, white working heir nine-to-fives.
Cashiers
Working the cash register is hard, especially if you have to do it all day. Managing the cash register involves a lot of typing and pressing multiple buttons. The cash register also places your hands in awkward positions while typing.
In some cases, cashiers might use extra force to accomplish various activities. The improper handling, awkward hand positioning, and extended working hours contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Office Workers
Office work involves many computer uses that engage both hands, mainly typing. Typing on the keyboard and using a mouse for long periods increases the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. This and poor ergonomics contribute to a greater risk for CTS.
Assembly Line Workers
Working in the assembly or manufacturing industry involves a lot of repeated hand and wrist motions. Assembly workers repeat the same hand gestures throughout the day with short breaks in between. Some assembly line jobs require placing your hands in awkward positions for extended periods.
Given their intense work activity, assembly line workers are at a greater risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Workers are advised to switch hands as often as possible to reduce their chances of CTS. Employers should also proactively educate their staff on the proper form and body mechanics to ease pressure on the hand and arms.
Manual Laborers
Despite technological advancements, manual laborers still form a critical part of our economy, especially in construction and farming. Construction workers, plumbers, and farm laborers are also at risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Manual labor primarily involves using the hand to accomplish various tasks. Repeated motions and forceful hand actions contribute to the development of CTS in manual workers. They also have to hold and use vibrating equipment for long periods, increasing the possibility of developing CTS.
Musicians
Musicians who play specific instruments are also predisposed to carpal tunnel syndrome. Live performances and practice sessions could last for hours. The repetitive motion and awkward hand gestures while playing the instrument could lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Musicians should take breaks as often as possible to reduce their chances of CTS.