Wrist–Hand Disability in Adolescents with Symptoms Suggestive of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstrak

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is commonly reported in adults; however, symptoms suggestive of CTS are increasingly observed among adolescents. Repetitive wrist movements related to academic activities and prolonged smartphone use may contribute to wrist–hand complaints in this population. Despite this, information regarding wrist–hand disability among adolescents remains limited, particularly in primary healthcare settings.

Objective: This study aimed to describe the demographic characteristics and the level of wrist–hand disability among adolescents presenting with symptoms suggestive of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Methods: This observational study used a descriptive cross-sectional design. Participants were adolescents with wrist or hand complaints suggestive of median nerve compression and were recruited using purposive sampling in the working area of Wonopringgo Primary Health Center. Clinical screening using Tinel’s sign and the Phalen test was performed. Wrist–hand disability was assessed using the Wrist Hand Disability Index (WHDI). Data were analyzed descriptively using means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages.

Results: A total of 62 adolescents participated. Most respondents were aged 10–14 years (53.5%), followed by 15–17 years (27.4%) and 18–24 years (19.4%). Female participants accounted for 66.1%. The mean WHDI score was 2.39 ± 0.947. Based on WHDI categories, 21.0% reported no disability, 30.6% mild disability, 37.1% moderate disability, and 11.3% severe disability.

Conclusion: Adolescents with symptoms suggestive of CTS were predominantly early adolescents and female. Moderate wrist–hand disability was most common, highlighting the importance of early screening and preventive physiotherapy interventions.