Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Computer Users

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Dr Anurag Awasthi  Orthopaedic Specialist, Sohna Road, Gurgaon 9718112112

The present time belongs to the generation of young, talented professionals who work at long stretches to meet deadlines. A large segment of those are the ones handling the the extensions of the human arm-
The keyboard.
A major surge in the number of software professionals whether working in IT industries, or BPOs and call centers, has brought an increase in the people consulting physicians for occupational hazards associated with computer usage.

Carpal Tunnel syndrome is a disorder mostly affecting young people working on keyboards.
This happens due to pressure on the Median nerve which is encased in a fibrous sheath on the anterior (front) aspect of the wrist.

The patients usually complain of pain and abnormal sensations in the hand, particularly the index finger. In long-standing cases there may be weakness of thumb movements or numbness in the index finger tip.

The important differential being a Cervical Disc prolapse (slipped disc), which may produce similar symptoms, and also affects the same population.

So, the next question is: How do we Diagnose?

Carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis is made using the nerve conduction velocity studies and Electromyography (study of the effect of electrical stimulation on muscle contraction). A clinical test which may suggest the diagnosis is- reproduction of symptoms when the wrist is acutely bent forwards.

Most patients of Carpal Tunnel syndrome can be treated by slight modification in work place environment, a role Ergonomics has to play (The article on Ergonomics throws greater emphasis on this topic).

In resistant cases, the the fibrous sheath of Median nerve may be injected with a dose of local steroid.

Patients who do not respond to steroid injections, may be treated by surgery.
The fibrous sheath of Median nerve is opened through an incision in the palm. The procedure can be effectively performed under local anesthesia, and the patients may go home the same day.

To summarize, Carpal Tunnel syndrome may be prevented by Ergonomic modifications, if however; it produces embarrassing symptoms, it can be effectively treated. Medicines do not have a reliably proven role in the treatment; although sometimes, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is prescribed.

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