Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Administrative Staff at the University of Tripoli: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common peripheral neuropathies, resulting from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. It represents an important occupational health concern, particularly among office employees exposed to prolonged computer use and repetitive hand activities. Despite increasing international evidence, data regarding CTS among office workers in Libya remain limited.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CTS-related symptoms and to examine their association with demographic and occupational factors among administrative staff at the University of Tripoli.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 162 administrative employees selected using probability-based sampling. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, occupational exposure, CTS-related symptoms, functional manifestations, and symptom modifiers. CTS severity was classified into mild, moderate, and severe categories based on questionnaire scoring. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: CTS-related symptoms were commonly reported among participants, with 40.7% experiencing nocturnal wrist pain and 38.0% reporting nocturnal tingling or numbness. Mild CTS constituted the largest proportion of cases (46.7%), followed by moderate (36.7%) and severe CTS (16.6%). Female gender, increasing age, and combined manual and computer-based work were significantly associated with the presence of CTS symptoms (p < 0.05). Symptoms during daily activities were reported by 61.1% of participants, whereas improvement with wrist splint use was observed in only 26%.
Conclusion: CTS represents a notable occupational health burden among administrative employees at the University of Tripoli. Female gender, older age, and prolonged computer use were identified as significant associated factors. These findings highlight the importance of early screening programs, ergonomic workplace interventions, and preventive occupational health strategies to reduce the risk and impact of CTS.