Date of Award
6-1990
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Industrial and Entrepreneurial Engineering and Engineering Management
First Advisor
Dr. Robert Wygant
Second Advisor
Dr. Bruce Fischer
Third Advisor
Dr. Bob White
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Richard Cooper
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a cumulative trauma disorder involving compression of the median nerve within the wrist. This disorder has become an industrial epidemic, striking workers whose daily activities involve repetitive motion, wrist deviation, awkward finger postures, and excessive forces to the hand. In an effort to identify and control existing trauma, as well as prevent the onset of further cases of CTS, a systematic evaluation technique has been developed to assist in the ergonomic analysis of the work place. This assessment technique identifies and quantifies occupational risk factors of a task that may predispose workers to CTS. With this type of work place evaluation, tasks can be ranked according to wrist stress levels and modifications implemented in a prioritized manner. Benefits involving the minimization of CTS can then be realized not only by the employee, but by the employer as well.
Recommended Citation
Kleinfeld, Karen, "A Systematic Evaluation Technique for Assisting in the Identification and Prevention of Wrist Stress in the Work Place" (1990). Masters Theses. 1036.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/1036