There are two conditions to which you should seek out an ergonomic assessment by a certified professional ergonomist. You can find one to assist you observe and identify risk factors of both carpal tunnel syndrome and thoracic outlet syndrome. Two conditions that are cumulative ergonomic issues.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the number one most common nerve entrapment disorder. Most people have heard about it and maybe even felt some of the symptoms in their lifetime. The symptoms arise due to compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist within the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a narrow and confined space and susceptible to internal and external compression forces. Swelling of any of the tissues within this enclosed space can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel. The median nerve is what provides both feeling and motor movement to the thumb through to the middle three fingers. So constant compression can result in both pain and disability. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) still remains a bit of a mystery in terms of diagnosis and treatment, but it has and strong association with cumulative trauma disorders (CTS). Carpal tunnel syndrome can result from anything that increases the pressure inside of the carpal tunnel. The nerve is the softest and most vulnerable component within. Swelling of the tendon sheaths or tenosynovitis of the flexor tendons within the tunnel is most likely the leading factor of the increase in pressure.
Thoracic outlet syndrome consists of upper body symptoms due to pressure placed on the nerves of blood vessels between the base of the neck and the armpit. Symptoms specifically include the neck pain, arm weakness and/or numbness extending along the inner forearm into the medial two fingers. Symptoms may be aggravated by awkward arm and shoulder postures especially shoulder flexion and abduction. Resting your weight on a desk or armrests for an 8-hour workday would be an example of a cause of this. This syndrome may make it hard to distinguish the specific area since it can affect so a large area spread on the body. The nerves of the brachial plexus are typically what is affected most commonly and this as well as carpal tunnel syndrome are quite difficult to reverse since they are typically a result of a developmental change in posture due to poor habits when working and sitting.
If you are experiencing discomfort related to working at your computer workstation, whether at home or in the office, reach out to our ergonomic specialist at Ergobility to help you ensure that you take all the necessary actions to help you recover and repair.
