Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Ergonomics

The word, “Ergonomics” is thrown around a lot when it comes to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The term ergonomics comes from the Greek ergon, meaning “work”, and nomos, meaning “natural laws.” By definition, ergonomics means, “…the study of efficiency in working environments.” Wikipedia describes it as, “…the study of designing equipment and devices that fit the human body, and its cognitive abilities.” The International Ergonomics Association offers this definition: “Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance.”

The study of ergonomics is not new as it dates back to Ancient Greece with substantial evidence that, in the 5th century BC, ergonomic principles were applied to tool design, jobs and workplaces. Examples include Hippocrates giving surgeons recommendations on how to arrange their table and tools during surgery.

Some ergonomic concepts you can employ on a daily basis include:

1. Take frequent breaks, every half-hour if possible, but at least every 60 to 90 minutes. Get up, stretch and walk around. If nothing else, perform stretches while sitting in your work chair.
2. Maintain “good posture” (tuck in the chin and hold the retracted position).
3. Evaluate your workstation: proper sitting position, how you hold the phone, keyboard/monitor positions, type & position of the mouse, reaching requirements, avoid twist/bending the wrists.
4. When grasping/gripping, use the whole hand – not just the fingers or thumb tips alone.
5. Keep cutting instruments sharp (scissors, knives, etc.) and maintain locks on hinged knives.
6. Consider modifications if tools are too heavy, buttons too high, too much required force, etc.
7. Stay in shape as obesity is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome.
8. Rotate job tasks rather than continuing with one task until finished (less repetition)!
9. Communicate with your supervisor and HRO person about improving the workplace.

At Denver Chiropractic Center, we’ve been treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Active Release Techniques since the year 2000. By releasing scar tissue in the muscles around the nerve, we can often get rid of this debilitating condition. Our success rate is around 90%, with no side effects. If you’re considering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome surgery, we urge you to give us a try.

We realize you have a choice in who you consider for your health care provision and we sincerely appreciate your trust in choosing Active Release Techniques at Denver Chiropractic Center or those needs.  If you, a friend or family member require care for CTS, please call us today at 303,300,0424