Can RSI be Prevented using Blood Tests to Measure Early Signs of Inflammation in the Arms and Hands?

San Francisco Carpal Tunnel Doctor Comments on recent study:

I read a really interesting article on the excellent RSI-Relief Blog entitled: Blood Test May Identify RSI (Repetitive Stress Injuries) that talks about a study that was done at Temple University to determine if there were any bio-markers in the bloodstream that could be measured to determine if someone at risk (office workers, assembly line workers) was developing signs of CTS (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) or RSI. As it turns out there are early indications of inflammation. The only problem is, there are other physiological conditions that can cause elevated levels of inflammation. The research is promising though. I commented that employers could do regular screenings, just like General Motors Company does with it's assembly line workers. They use a non-invasive test called "sensory nerve conduction" to see if there are any abnormal sensory patterns, which may indicate early nerve damage secondary to RSI or CTS. Then, they pull the workers off the assembly line, rehabilitate them (physical therapy, chiropractic, rest), re-test them, then put them back to work. All this before any symptom developer. SMART.

If you would like to be checked for CTS or RSI at our San Francisco Carpal Tunnel Injury Center, please call 415-392-2225 and ask for a complimentary CTS Evaluation.