Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Lahore Office Workers Using Keyboard More Than Six Hours Per Day

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent work-related musculoskeletal disorder among computer users, yet regional data on its burden and functional impact in South Asian office workers remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, severity, and functional limitations associated with CTS among Lahore office workers who use keyboards for more than six hours per day. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 179 private office workers aged 26–35 years in Lahore, Pakistan. Eligible participants were full-time employees, used keyboards for >6 hours/day, and had at least one year in their current position; those with comorbid neurological or musculoskeletal disorders, recent injuries, pregnancy, or chronic analgesic use were excluded. Data were collected through direct interviews and self-administered questionnaires, employing Phalen’s and Tinel sign tests for CTS diagnosis, and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) to assess symptom severity and functional limitation. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board, adhering to the Helsinki Declaration. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v27.0, employing descriptive and inferential methods. Results: CTS was confirmed in 45.3% of participants (n = 81). Moderate to severe symptom severity was observed in 41.3%, and functional limitation was present in 31.9%. Non-official work participation was significantly associated with CTS (p = 0.04). CTS-positive participants reported greater difficulty in daily tasks such as writing and opening jars, reflecting substantial clinical and occupational impact. Conclusion: Nearly half of Lahore office workers using keyboards extensively have clinically significant CTS with substantial functional limitations, highlighting the urgent need for targeted ergonomic interventions and workplace health policies to mitigate this burden.