Journal of Ergonomics
Open Access

Abstract

The Social and Economic Impact of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Maintenance-of-Way Employees

Ruth Ruttenberg*

Thousands of railroad Maintenance-of-Way (MOW) workers develop Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) from their work. Objective: This study calculates the social and economic burdens of carpal tunnel syndrome borne by thousands of MOW workers. Methods: Economic calculations are derived from the literature and also from a survey of 4,800 MOW respondents, 155 in-depth interviews, and two focus groups. Results: This one health problem alone costs at least $128.6 million to $225.3 million over the course of CTS cases currently diagnosed among MOW workers. Many individuals work through significant pain or have to leave the profession. Some are crippled for life. Conclusion: When a worker has carpal tunnel syndrome, beyond pain and suffering, there are often financial burdens that affect families, railroad companies, insurers, communities, and taxpayers as well as the injured workers.

Published Date: 2019-06-13; Received Date: 2019-05-11