Do computer technicians get Carpal Tunnel Syndrome more than typists who transcribe all day long? According to studies by Dr. Christian Walker the answer is YES.
Here is the link to an article by Dr. Walker. The language may seem a bit technical but you will probably get the idea.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Can-Changing-Your-Workstation-Prevent-Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome?&id=4683440
What Dr. Walker says is that just because you
DO a certain thing it doesn’t mean that thing caused your symptoms.
He says that some people type (transcribe) all day yet are not at risk for developing carpal tunnel symptoms. Yet, he says computer technicians DO develop carpal tunnel symptoms.
Interesting, hmmm? And, as always, my question is WHY?
Actually, I think this is very interesting because we tend to think that female typists are more at risk than other types of workers. (Even though it’s not true.)
My guess would be that the female transcriptionists possibly “watch their posture” more than the computer programmers. Maybe they tend to use desk top computers rather than laptops? Perhaps they use headsets to listen while they transcribe and that causes them to hold their head up and use better posture?
Having a weak back or working hunched over can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Having a strong back and good posture can help avoid it.
Dr. Walker says if it’s in your genes you have a much greater chance to get it. Hmmm. Does this mean that computer technicians have similar genes to each other? And transcriptionists all have similar genes?
Well, I’m thinking not. Anyway…
It’s an interesting article by a researcher about the effect that changing your workstation may–or may not–have on your carpal tunnel symptoms.