Awareness and knowledge of carpal tunnel syndrome in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia

Objective: This study aimed to assess carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) awareness among adults in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 534 adults from the Eastern province. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics and knowledge of CTS, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment. Results: The largest age group was 26–35 years (25.8%). Gender distribution was nearly equal, with 51.3% men. Most participants were employed (51.1%) and held postgraduate degrees (39.7%). Overall, 77.7% of participants demonstrated poor knowledge of CTS. Although 48.9% had heard of CTS, knowledge of specific aspects was limited. Only 26.0% correctly identified female sex as a risk factor, and similar low percentages recognized other causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. Men had significantly higher CTS knowledge than women (p-value = 0.000). Participants with monthly incomes of 10,000–20,000 Saudi Riyals had higher knowledge levels than those with lower incomes (p-value = 0.000). Age and employment status were also significantly associated with CTS knowledge. Conclusion: CTS awareness in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia was low. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health initiatives to improve knowledge of CTS. Increased awareness is essential for early diagnosis, effective management, and better health outcomes.