Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies

February 15, 2024
OrthoNJ

What Exactly is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a widespread condition. It affects the hand and wrist, causing discomfort, tingling, and numbness and sometimes requires surgery to alleviate these challenges. Understanding it, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and effective prevention techniques, can help you know how to manage it and when to seek help.

The Role of the Median Nerve

The median nerve runs down the anterior of the arm and forearm, extending into the hand and fingers, and provides sensation to the palm, thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. It also controls the movement of specific muscles in the hand.

Carpal tunnel syndrome impacts the hand and wrist and occurs when the median nerve, a major nerve of the hand, becomes compressed or pinched as it passes through a narrow passageway formed by bones and ligaments in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This compression of the median nerve leads to various symptoms, primarily affecting the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.

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Causes and Mechanisms Behind Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Understanding the causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome involves recognizing various factors that contribute to nerve compression:

Repetitive Hand Use 

Engaging in activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as using a computer mouse, typing, or operating machinery, can lead to the inflammation and swelling of tendons within the carpal tunnel. This, in turn, increases pressure on the median nerve, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

Wrist Anatomy and Structure

An individual's wrist anatomy can predispose them to carpal tunnel syndrome. Some people may naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel or thicker ligaments. This leaves less space for the median nerve and increases the likelihood of compression.

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Fluid Retention 

Conditions that cause fluid retention, such as pregnancy, menopause, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism, can exacerbate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Fluid buildup in the tissues can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel, further compressing the median nerve.

Recognizing Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Certain factors can increase an individual's risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome:

Occupational Hazards 

Jobs that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, prolonged computer use, or the use of vibrating tools increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Examples include assembly line work, data entry, and hairstyling.

Rear View of young women look at mirror, get haircut from hairdresser. Professional young girl hair stylist work in store use scissors cutting and setting beautiful girl customer's hair in barber shop, you can get carpal tunnel from jobs like being a hairstylist.

Underlying Health Conditions

Conditions such as diabetes, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can predispose individuals to nerve compression and increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Gender and Age 

Women are more commonly affected by carpal tunnel syndrome than men, particularly those between the ages of 30 and 60. Hormonal fluctuations and differences in wrist anatomy may contribute to this disparity.

Identifying Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Recognizing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome is crucial for early intervention and management. Common symptoms include:

Numbness and Tingling

Those with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome regularly experience tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. These sensations may occur intermittently or persistently and may worsen at night.

Weakness and Difficulty Gripping 

Weakening of the muscles in the hand leads to difficulty with fine motor skills like grasping small objects or buttoning clothing.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain and/or discomfort may be experienced in the wrist, palm, or forearm, which may radiate up the arm and toward the shoulder.

Effective Prevention Strategies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

a young girl is standing near the table and typing text on the keyboard. next to the girl lie documents and a marker.

While it may not be possible to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome entirely, there are steps individuals can take to minimize their risk and alleviate symptoms:

Frequent Hand and Wrist Breaks 

If your job or daily activities involve repetitive hand movements, taking regular breaks, resting, and stretching your hands and wrists can be helpful.

Ergonomic Workstations 

Set your workspace up to be ergonomically sound to promote proper hand and wrist positioning. You can use supportive devices such as wrist rests, ergonomic keyboards, and adjustable chairs to reduce strain.

Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Excess body weight can increase the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by exerting additional pressure on the nerves and tissues within the carpal tunnel. 

Practice Good Posture 

Maintain proper posture and alignment of the wrists while performing tasks such as typing, using a computer mouse, or lifting objects. Avoid excessive bending or extending of the wrists.

Strengthening and Stretching Exercises

To improve your flexibility and strengthen the muscles surrounding the carpal tunnel, incorporate hand and wrist exercises into your day. Focus on gentle stretches and resistance exercises to alleviate tension and reduce inflammation.

When to Seek Orthopedic Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you believe you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, it's essential to seek evaluation and treatment from an orthopedic specialist. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort, prevent further nerve damage, and improve long-term outcomes. ONJ has Orthopedic Surgeons at all six divisions across New Jersey who specialize in hand and wrist conditions.


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Stop suffering from wrist pain, and contact an ONJ Orthopaedic Surgeon near you today.

To learn more about our specialists, visit the hand and wrist specialty page.


By understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their hand and wrist health. If you think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome or have questions about managing your symptoms, don't hesitate to consult with one of ONJ's Orthopaedic Hand and Wrist specialists for personalized guidance and care.

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