WORK-RELATED NEUROPATHIES

What are Work-Related Neuropathies?

Work-related neuropathies are conditions in which nerves are damaged in the absence of medical conditions that can cause nerve damage.

Nerve damage in work-related neuropathies is most commonly caused by stretching or compression, usually through repetitive body movements required by a job.

There are several work-related neuropathies. Two of the most common are carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and sciatic neuropathy.

I. What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand. When the median nerve is compressed, symptoms can include numbness, tingling and weakness in the thumb and fingers.

Wrist anatomy, health conditions and possibly repetitive hand motions can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.

What medical specialists manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

A team of healthcare professionals usually manages patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These include:

Orthopedic surgeon

Neurosurgeon

Neurologist

Physiatrist

Physical therapist

Self-Care Tips:

Take more-frequent breaks to rest the hands.

Don’t do activities that make symptoms worse.

Use cold packs to reduce swelling.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or physician to determine the specific tests and treatment options suitable for your type of neuropathy. Each individual’s condition may vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history, symptoms, and other relevant factors. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

II. What is Sciatic Neuropathy?

Sciatic neuropathy refers to nerve damage to the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve travels from the back of the pelvis and down the back of the thigh. It is the largest nerve in the body and the major nerve in the leg.

Various scenarios in the workplace can cause sciatic neuropathy. These include:

Lifting heavy objects without proper technique can strain the back, leading to herniated discs or nerve compression.
Long periods of sitting or standing may cause muscle imbalances and put pressure on the spine, contributing to sciatic nerve injury.
Continuous repetitive motions, common in assembly line work or data entry, can cause repetitive strain injuries, including sciatic neuropathy.
Falls, slips, or accidents involving heavy machinery can abruptly cause herniated discs or direct nerve compression, leading to sudden and severe sciatic pain.
Improper workstation design (ergonomics) can contribute to poor posture, resulting in chronic back strain and potential sciatic nerve injury.

Symptoms checklist:

Symptoms of sciatic neuropathy may affect the lower body, such as the lower back, buttocks, thighs, and lower legs. These can include:

PAIN

WEAKNESS

NUMBNESS

TINGLING

Nerve pain can cause stabbing, shooting, or burning sensations and may worsen at night. Severe symptoms may affect quality of life and mental health.

What medical specialists manage Sciatic Neuropathy?

A team of healthcare professionals usually manages patients with Sciatic neuropathy. These include:

Orthopedic surgeon

Neurologist

Physiatrist

Physical therapist

Self-Care Tips:

Maintain good posture while you’re sitting, standing, lifting objects and sleeping.

Maintain a healthy weight.

Stay active. Physical activity can include everything from stretching to strength training. Increasing core strength and flexibility can improve back pain. Other forms of activity, such as aerobic exercise, can also help you reach and maintain a weight that’s healthy for you.

Protect yourself from falls. Wear shoes that fit and keep stairs and walkways free of clutter to reduce your chance of a fall. Make sure rooms are well-lit, and there are grab bars in bathrooms and rails on stairways.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317212
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpain.2023.1162405/full
https://www.valiantlifemedical.com/blog/how-peripheral-neuropathy-can-impact-your-quality-of-life
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14737-peripheral-neuropathy
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