Aarushi Kumar

How can tracking repetitive motion through sensors and providing feedback to computer users in office settings assist in the early detection and prevention of the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?

Started Aug. 6, 2024

Abstract or project description

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition in the wrist characterized by pain, numbness, and impaired hand function. As repetitive movements are the most common factors in CTS cases resulting from workplace environments, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) classifies CTS as an occupational illness. Left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage, muscle weakness, and a significant loss of hand function, making tasks like typing, writing, or gripping objects painful and strenuous. This investigation focuses on creating a device that measures the time a computer user engages in strenuous repetitive motions essentially indicative of developing CTS. The device measures muscle activity from the electric potential of the muscle through electromyography sensors to determine how long a user has been typing on the computer. After 30 minutes of repetitive use, the app will notify the user to take a break and engage in proper stretching exercises to relieve tension in the wrist. By measuring these motions and developing a resource for users, fewer people might develop CTS. To assess participants’ opinions of the device, an online questionnaire and Google Slides summary of the project were distributed to 44 people, including questions on clarity, effectiveness, and improvements. This work seeks to answer the question of how tracking repetitive motion through sensors and providing feedback to computer users in office settings assist in the early detection and prevention of the development of CTS.