THE PREVALENCE OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME IN RETAIL STORE CASHIERS IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper limb, caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. It is characterized by wrist pain, numbness, tingling, and in severe cases, muscle atrophy. The condition is frequently associated with repetitive hand motions, awkward wrist positioning, and prolonged flexion, making certain occupational groups particularly vulnerable. Among these, retail cashiers are at high risk due to the repetitive nature of their tasks and prolonged working hours.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among retail store cashiers in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted over six months among 191 retail cashiers from various areas of Karachi, using a convenience sampling technique. Participants included males and females aged 18–40 years with a minimum of one year of experience in cashier roles involving repetitive wrist movements. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTSQ) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), assessing symptom severity and functional status. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26 with frequency distribution, chi-square tests, and correlation analysis.

Results: Out of 191 participants, 41 (21.5%) were diagnosed with CTS. Of the total sample, 176 (92.1%) were male and 15 (7.9%) were female. Participants aged 34–40 years formed the largest group (39.3%). A total of 69 (36.1%) had more than 7 years of work experience, and 145 (75.9%) reported working 40 or more hours per week. There was a statistically significant correlation between age and symptom severity (p = 0.037) and a moderate negative correlation between symptom severity and work-related factors (r = -0.170, p = 0.018).

Conclusion: The study identified a considerable prevalence of CTS among retail cashiers in Karachi. The findings emphasize the importance of ergonomic workplace interventions and preventive strategies to reduce CTS risk in high-exposure occupations. Further research is needed to explore occupation-specific risk contributors and evaluate long-term ergonomic solutions.