The Effects of Working Hours on Nerve Conduction Test in Computer Operators
- Author:
AA Ganeriwal
;
DA Biswas
;
TK Srivastava
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
computer operator, long work hours, nerve conduction studies
- From:Malaysian Orthopaedic Journal
2013;7(1):1-6
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background: Long hours of work at a computer can result in
potential adverse effects such as pain, paraesthesia, and
subjective weakness of upper extremities with associated
decreased nerve conduction velocities of peripheral nerves
(median and ulnar). Objective: To determine whether
repetitive tasks performed for long hours by computer
operators can lead to peripheral neuropathy as measured by
nerve conduction studies of upper extremities. Material And
Methods: We performed nerve conduction tests on 50
computer operators in two study groups. Group I consisted
of computer operators who worked a minimum of 6 hours
per day at the computer while Group II worked a maximum
of 2 hours per day. Results: Significant differences were
observed between groups for most physical signs. In
addition, there were significant differences between the
groups for nerve conduction velocities of the medial (motor
& sensory) and ulnar (motor & sensory) nerves. Conclusion:
We found symptoms of pain, paraesthesia and subjective
weaknesses as well as decreased conduction velocities of
peripheral nerves in computer operators who work long
hours. Further nerve conduction studies are needed to
confirm predictive value for the development of carpal
tunnel syndrome.
- Full text:W020160108588702159031.pdf
