Prevalence and Risk Factors For Self-Reported Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among IT Office Workers in Karachi: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common peripheral nerve entrapment disorder, often triggered by repetitive wrist movements and poor ergonomics. With the rise of digital professions, particularly in the IT sector, CTS has emerged as a significant occupational health concern. Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and hand weakness not only reduce quality of life but also impact productivity and professional performance. While international studies have highlighted these issues, data specific to Pakistan’s IT workforce remain limited.To determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for self-reported symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among IT office workers in Karachi. A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, involving 169 full-time IT professionals employed across three institutions in Karachi. Participants were selected via non-probability convenience sampling. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to assess symptom severity and functional impairment. Data were analysed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlation analyses, and diagnostic tests (reliability, normality, multicollinearity, and homogeneity). Among 169 participants, 15.98% reported mild symptoms, 63.91% moderate, and 15.98% severe symptoms. Symptom severity was highest among males (82.35%) and those aged 21–30. Similarly, impairment severity followed a comparable trend, with 19.53% reporting severe impairment. Statistically significant associations were observed between symptom severity and demographic variables (age, gender, and marital status). Cronbach’s alpha for BCTQ was 0.878, indicating good reliability. The correlation coefficient between symptom and impairment severity was 0.34, and all null hypotheses were rejected in chi-square tests, affirming the role of demographic factors. CTS is notably prevalent among IT office workers in Karachi, especially in younger males and single individuals. Key contributing factors include prolonged computer use, poor ergonomics, and limited awareness of preventive strategies. These findings underscore the need for targeted ergonomic interventions and occupational health policies within the IT industry to reduce the risk and burden of CTS.