Jobs that involve repetitive use of hands and wrists can lead to serious work-related injuries. Numerous occupations require repetitive motion, repetitive stress, or repetitive use, making workers susceptible to repetitive motion injuries. Certain types of workers and work activities are particularly associated with these injuries, including;

• Assembly line worker
• Checkout line workers
• Data entry specialists
• Data processing specialists
• Factory workers
• Typists
• Administrative work
• Operating vibrating tools

Two common types of repetitive motion injuries in the workplace are Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a nerve damage condition caused by compression and irritation of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel, a bony canal in the palm side of the wrist. Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include numbness, tingling, wrist pain, “pins and needles” sensation, grip weakness, and lack of coordination. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, on the other hand, occurs due to an injury or repetitive movement of the nerve that runs behind the elbow. This condition can also be caused by prolonged leaning or resting on the elbow or operating machinery. Common symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include pain and numbness in the hand, particularly in the ring and little fingers, as well as potential weakness and pain in the hand and elbow.