Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you’re experiencing hand pain, carpal tunnel syndrome could be the cause. This condition occurs in response to the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, located at the bottom of the wrist. The median nerve contributes to sensations felt in your thumb and three middle fingers.

If the nerve becomes compressed, you may notice pain, tingling, numbness and weakness in your hand that passes up the arm. Compression can be caused by poor form, repetitive motion or another condition affecting the area. Most cases can be treated with physical therapy and lifestyle changes, although surgery may be needed if the condition progresses.

If you’re having trouble gripping objects and other symptoms related to carpal tunnel syndrome, understand the common causes.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome have no specified cause. Multiple factors may contribute to the issue, affecting how nerve signals pass through the palm and middle fingers. In general, causes can irritate the nerve or compress it through swelling or inflammation:

• Repetitive Motion: This involves smaller motions done over and over, as well as repeatedly grasping objects, which can extend from job duties like typing, assembly line work and using tools for hours at a time.
• Vibration Exposure: Repeat exposure to vibrations, along with flexing the wrist, can place pressure on the median nerve. This contributes to nerve damage or worsens existing pain.
• Health Conditions: Arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can inflame the tendons and ligaments passing through the wrist and alter bone structure, compressing the median nerve and restricting blood flow. Conditions like diabetes increase risks for nerve damage and can lead to the development of carpal tunnel. Swelling from lymphedema and kidney issues may also cause fluid to pool around the wrist and place pressure on the median nerve.
• Hormonal Changes: In response to pregnancy, a thyroid issue or menopause, hormonal changes may contribute to swelling, fluid retention and inflammation in the wrist.
• Wrist Injury: Sprains, strains, fractures and dislocation can narrow the passageway for the median nerve and cause the ligaments around the wrist to swell.
• Genetics: You’re more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome if members of your family have had the condition.
• Body Structure and Sex: People with a smaller or narrower carpal tunnel have a greater likelihood of developing this condition. Because women generally have smaller bone structure, they are more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel.
• Obesity: Extra body weight can place strain on your wrist area.
• Trauma: An incident resulting in sudden force applied to the wrist can compress the ligaments and nerves passing through.

Diagnostic Process

If you’re showing signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, a doctor will first review your medical history and perform a physical exam, medical imaging and electrodiagnostic tests.

Depending on the results, you may be prescribed:

• A splint to keep your wrist stable and lessen nerve compression
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Lifestyle and ergonomic changes
• Surgery to lessen compression placed on the median nerve
• Physical therapy to improve your form, lessen pressure on the median nerve or recover from surgery

Additionally, you’ll be advised to remain aware of factors that can increase your risk for carpal tunnel or cause the condition to progress. Be mindful of:

• How hard you grip and hold objects.
• The amount of pressure used when typing.
• Taking breaks on the job to stretch your wrists and hands.
• The positioning of your work area. Your keyboard should be around elbow height and your mouse should allow you to keep your wrist in a neutral position.
• Maintaining good posture to avoid tense muscles.
• Room temperature, as colder air can cause muscles to stiffen.

To manage carpal tunnel syndrome or recover from surgery, work with the physical therapists at Integrated Rehab. Contact us today.