Rates of carpal tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, and rotator cuff claims in Ontario workers during 1997

Abstract

The primary objective of this research was the calculation of crude and specific rates of first-allowed, lost-time carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), epicondylitis, and rotator cuff syndrome/tear (RCS/RCT) claims in Ontario workers during 1997. A secondary objective was to determine if results related to these diagnoses were consistent with findings for all cumulative trauma disorders affecting the specific part of upper extremity region. Rates were calculated by combining claim counts and population "at-risk" estimates derived from the Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board databases and Canadian Labour Force Survey, respectively. The prevention index was used to prioritize occupations for intervention. Gender-specific rates declined as one moved proximally along the upper extremity. Similarly, female to male claim rate ratios declined from 1.61 for CTS to 0.47 for RCS/RCT. Frequently occurring highest rate and prevention index occupational categories across gender and diagnoses included "textiles, furs & leathergoods" and "other machining occupations". Diagnosis-specific findings were consistent with previously reported part of upper extremity findings.