Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Its Risk Factors among Information Technology Students in Sialkot

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a widespread peripheral nerve disorder, particularly common among individuals who engage in repetitive wrist and hand movements. With the rapid increase in the use of digital technology, students in fields requiring extensive computer engagement, such as information technology, are becoming more vulnerable to developing this syndrome at an early age. The constant use of laptops, smartphones, and gaming devices contributes to sustained wrist strain, making carpal tunnel syndrome a growing concern among young adults. Objective: To determine the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome and identify associated risk factors among information technology students in Sialkot. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2025 after receiving formal approval from the research ethical committee of the University of Sialkot, conducted on 375 information technology students aged 19 to 25 years who reported using computers or smartphones for a minimum of four hours daily. Before data collection, written informed consent was obtained from all participants after explaining the study objectives, confidentiality procedures, and the voluntary nature of participation. Students having musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, or trauma were excluded. Symptom Severity Scale and Functional Status Scale scores were measured using the validated Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire. Inferential statistics were performed using the chi-square test to examine associations between carpal tunnel syndrome and various risk factors. Results: The overall prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome was found to be 72.3%. Among the affected participants, 48.8% experienced mild symptoms, 19.2% had moderate symptoms, and 4.3% reported severe to very severe symptoms. Statistically significant associations were observed between carpal tunnel syndrome and diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), smoking (p<0.001), hypertension (p=0.002), thyroid disorders (p<0.001), rheumatoid arthritis (p<0.001), and wrist injury (p=0.001). Prolonged gaming (41.3%) and insufficient rest breaks (66.9%) were also linked to reduced functional capacity. Conclusion: The findings indicate a notably high prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome among information technology students. Lifestyle habits, health conditions, and extended device usage were major contributors, whereas age, gender, and body mass index showed minimal impact.