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Background: This controlled randomized experiment tested the research hypothesis that providing the CTS-6 quantitative diagnostic information to hand surgeons affects the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Methods: Surgeon members of American Association for Hand Surgery participated in an online survey. Demographic and practice pattern information was collected. Few surgeons routinely use diagnostic questionnaires or algorithms. Each member was given four clinical scenarios. The respondents were randomized, The experimental group was given the same scenarios as the control group plus the quantitative results of the CTS-6 diagnostic tool.

Results: There were statistically significant differences between the groups in the diagnostic decisions. Using the CTS-6 quantitative diagnostic tool affected the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially for patients with the lowest number of findings associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Conclusions: While accurate diagnostic decisions are dependent on the incorporation of all of the pertinent information gathered during the history and physical exams, the results of the CTS-6 may help the clinician focus their thinking and revise their diagnostic probabilities.

Construction workers are frequently exposed to awkward work postures and physical demands that can lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. There has been limited development of assessment and outreach strategies targeting this highly mobile workforce in general and especially among Hispanic construction workers. We report the prevalence of joint pain from a convenience sample of Hispanic construction workers. A workplace musculoskeletal disorder assessment was undertaken coinciding with construction-site lunch truck visits among 54 workers employed at two large South Florida construction sites. A 45-item questionnaire preloaded onto handheld devices was utilized to record field data. Forty-seven percent of Hispanic workers reported joint pain 30 days prior to interview date, of whom 87% indicated these joint problems interfered with work activities. Over 63% reported experiencing low back pain that lasted at least a whole day during the past 3 months. Right and left knees were the most frequently reported painful joints (both 34%). Musculoskeletal disorders as evident by joint pain, appears to be prevalent among Hispanic construction workers. Workplace ergonomic prevention strategies that reduce musculoskeletal disorders using innovative recruitment and engagement methods (such as during lunch truck construction-site visits) may improve opportunities to reduce joint pain and damage.