inor inconvenience to a disabling condition, depending on its cause and persistence and the individual characteristics of the patient. Many cases of CTS are mild, and some resolve on their own. For example, once the pregnant women gives birth the swelling in her wrists subside and so do the CTS symptoms. If severe cases are left untreated, muscles at the base of the thumb may atrophy and sensation may be permanently lost. CTS can become so crippling that people can no longer do their job or even perform simple tasks at home. The syndrome may force people to undergo surgery and miss many days of work and can even prevent them from working at all if their hand functions are permanently impaired.Occupational related causes of CTS have had a severe impact on American businesses. Workers with CTS become easily fatigued, experience pain and discomfort, and may not perform up to par. "Nearly half of all employees diagnosed with CTS had changed jobs or were absent 30 months after diagnosis". (Stampton, 1998) Because of the difficulty in determining the exact cause of CTS, employers are concerned about high worker's compensation costs due to CTS, which may or may not be due to working conditions. Those receiving compensation are also more likely to be absent from work longer than those not being paid, particularly if the employer is opposing the case. "The medical costs and loss of productivity because of CTS has been estimated to average $29,000 per injured worker. Work related injuries, including CTS, that involve joints and muscles cost the country about $20 billion every year."(Stampton)Companies are now taking action to help prevent repetitive stress injuries. In a survey, 84% reported that they were modifying equipment, tasks, and process; 83% were analyzing their workstations and jobs, and 79% were buying new equipment. (Stampton) No single method of prevention exists for CTS. It is important to use common sense and ergonomic controls ...
