I have been told I have both carpal tunnel and a ganglion cyst that is from
a combination of the microtome, squeezing immuno bottles and the computer.
I have to wear a brace all day and if it is really bothering me at night
too. It seems to get better as long as I don't overuse my hand. If it
continues to be a problem they will have to do surgery. It really flares up
when using the squeeze bottles for immuno. Does anyone have a solution for
this? I am hearing more and more that many techs, in the field for any
length of time, are having hand and elbow problems. Has anyone addressed or
researched this subject? I would like to know more also!

Sincerely,
Lynn Gardner, HT(ASCP)




At 10:50 PM 5/10/99 -0400, you wrote:
>I have an idea for an article and for a discussion on the internet and that 
>is RSI, repetitive strain injury.  What are some of the pains that us older 
>or over worked histotechs are experiencing??  
>My current pain is in my the top of my hand.  It does'nt sound like carpal 
>tunnel, but it is a chronic dull ache. My guess is from trimming blocks, 
>before cutting.  I'm trying to give the job to the histo aides, but I can't 
>wear them out, too.  Anybody else have this problem or have any solution.
(I 
>know, don't be such a sloppy embedder!)
>Also, ergonomics in the Histo. Lab would be another good one.
>
>Deb C.
>Metro labs
>Davenport, IA.
>