Getting a handle on carpal tunnel syndrome

A condition that restricts normal functions of the hand, carpal tunnel syndrome is now the second leading cause of work-related illness, said Dr. Lesia Crumpton, assistant professor of industrial engineering at Mississippi State.

Crumpton specializes in ergonomics, a field that focuses on design of workplace and consumer products and the devices that humans use. "Ergonomics emphazises incorporating design concepts that assure human users efficiency and safety," she explains. Both her master's and doctoral work focused on preventing carpal tunnel syndrome development.

She is now beginning a two-month study about the condition and is looking for volunteer subjects around campus. "We want both people who think they may suffer from the condition, and those who don't," she explained. "We'll need volunteers for approximately 15 minutes at a time, and we will come to them."

For those who find themselves in front of a computer eight hours or more a day, Crumpton offers some suggestions for avoiding the pain and discomfort of CTS:

• Adjust your workstation so that you exercise good posture. Keep the wrists straight, arms supported and close to the body, back supported, and head in a natural and straight position.
• Vary your work tasks. After typing for a time, get up and run some errands. Whenever possible, interrupt the time you spend in a sedentary position.
• When working at your computer, stop and rest your hands frequently.
• Incorporate stretching exercises into your day. Before you begin your work day, stretch your fingers and hands. Repeat the stretches throughout the day.
• Give your hands a break. When you finish the work day and go home, choose a recreation that minimizes repetitive hand motions. Those who type most of the day may want to avoid excessive participation in hobbies such as playing the piano, gardening, or needlework.

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