Peer-reviewed research
Carpal tunnel syndrome and the use of computer mouse and keyboard: A systematic review
Jane Frolund Thomsen et al., BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 2008 · DOI 10.1186/1471-2474-9-134
Read the originalRead on October 16, 2026
- What it is
- An open-access systematic review of epidemiological studies on computer work and carpal tunnel syndrome, plus studies of low-force repetitive work and carpal tunnel pressure during keyboard and mouse use. It found eight epidemiological studies, all with methodological limitations.
- How much weight it carries
- Peer-reviewed and widely cited, by researchers in occupational medicine and hand surgery. It dates from 2008 and rests on a small number of imperfect studies, so it shows a lack of proof rather than proof of no effect.
Facts taken from this source
- A systematic review of eight epidemiological studies concluded that there is insufficient evidence that computer work causes carpal tunnel syndrome.
“There is insufficient epidemiological evidence that computer work causes CTS.” (Abstract, Conclusion)
Pages that rest on this source
- Speech to Text for Accessibility, RSI and DisabilitiesTopic
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes and TypingGuide
- Hand and Wrist Pain From Typing: What Is Causing ItGuide
- Typing Ergonomics: Set Up Your Desk to Prevent RSIGuide
- Can typing cause carpal tunnel syndrome?Question
- Is carpal tunnel syndrome an occupational disease?Question
- Should you stop typing if you have RSI or carpal tunnel?Question