Malahayati International Journal of Nursing and Health Science
Vol. 9 No. 6 (2026): Volume 9 Number 6

Factors associated with carpal tunnel syndrome among bag craftsmen in Sidoarjo, Indonesia

Farha Kamilatun Noha Fadilah (Universitas Airlangga)
Nadila Octaria Milenia (Universitas Jember)
Reny Indrayani (Universitas Jember)
Noeroel WIdajati (Airlangga University)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a wrist disorder caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. It commonly manifests as tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness in the fingers or hand. If left untreated, CTS can lead to more severe physical impairment. Workers engaged in repetitive tasks with awkward postures, such as bag craftsmen at UD Sumber Rejeki, are particularly at risk. Purpose: To identify risk factors associated with CTS complaints among bag craftsmen in Sidoarjo Regency. Method: An observational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach was employed. The sample comprised all 43 bag craftsmen. Data were collected through interviews and direct observation using questionnaires, Phalen’s Test sheets, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and wrist posture evaluations with the RULA method. Bivariate analysis was conducted using Chi-square or Fisher’s Exact tests, with associations expressed as Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Results were considered significant at p<0.05. Results: CTS complaints were reported by 26 workers (60.5%). Significant associations were found between gender (p=0.045; OR=3.75), length of service (p=0.009; OR=6.81), repetitive movements (p<0.001; OR=19.60), and awkward hand posture (p=0.002; OR=7.11). In contrast, age (p=0.055), smoking history (p=0.206), and medical history (p=0.154) showed no statistically significant associations with CTS complaints. Conclusion: Gender, duration of employment, repetitive movements, and non-ergonomic postures were significantly associated with CTS complaints among bag craftsmen. The industry is encouraged to implement adequate rest breaks and improve workstation ergonomics to reduce the risk of CTS complaints.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

minh

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Nursing Public Health

Description

Malahayati International Journal of Nursing and Health Science is a peer-reviewed journal and provides a platform to publish areas of nursing and health science. The journal also seeks to advance the quality of research by publishing papers introducing or elaborating on new methods in nursing and ...