Best Practice Case Studies-Wrist

Pdf Summary

The document consists of study questions related to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and provides insights into diagnosing and understanding this condition, especially in relation to occupational health. <br /><br />For Study Question #1, the correct answer is A: "The association between computer use and carpal tunnel syndrome is not supported by most studies." This suggests that despite common beliefs, there is insufficient epidemiological evidence to confirm computer work as a cause for CTS. References cited include studies and reviews from journals such as Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology and BMJ Open, which have found no significant association between CTS and computer use.<br /><br />Study Question #2 addresses symptoms and diagnostic evaluation of CTS. The correct answer is D: "Patients typically complain of numbness and tingling affecting the first three digits and the radial side of the ring finger." This symptomology reflects the involvement of the median nerve, which supplies these areas. The passage also clarifies that while symptoms may sometimes seem to involve all fingers, the ulnar nerve is responsible for the sensation in the ulnar side of the ring finger and fifth digit, thus differentiating true CTS symptoms. The document notes that nerve conduction studies, such as electromyography (EMG), are helpful as they typically show slowing of the nerve across the carpal tunnel, thereby aiding diagnosis. The inaccurate options are clarified, such as Froment’s sign being related to ulnar neuropathy, not CTS.<br /><br />These study questions and answers are supported by references from academic sources on family medicine and physical medicine and rehabilitation, indicating their reliability in medical practice and occupational health considerations.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 58

Topic Wrist

Keywords

carpal tunnel syndrome

CTS diagnosis

computer use

occupational health

median nerve

nerve conduction studies

electromyography

numbness and tingling

ulnar neuropathy

epidemiological evidence

3rd Edition

3rd Edition, CASE 58

Wrist