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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the carpal tunnel - a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand. The median nerve controls sensations to the palm side of the thumb and fingers (although not the little finger), as well as impulses to some small muscles in the hand that allow the fingers and thumb to move. The result of this compression may be pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm. Although painful sensations may indicate other conditions, carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common and widely known of the entrapment neuropathies in which the body's peripheral nerves are compressed or traumatized.

Risk Factors

  • women are three times more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome
  • dominant hand is usually affected first and produces the most severe pain
  • usually occurs only in adults
  • persons suffering with diabetes or other metabolic disorders
  • three times more common among assemblers than among data-entry personnel - ie. manufacturing, sewing, finishing, cleaning, and meat, poultry, or fish packing
  • it is interesting to note that a 2001 study by the Mayo Clinic found heavy computer use (up to 7 hours a day) DID NOT increase a person's risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome

    • Symptoms

  • symptoms usually start gradually, with frequent burning, tingling, or itching numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers
  • symptoms often first appear in one or both hands during the night
  • may wake up feeling the need to "shake out" the hand or wrist
  • may feel tingling during the day
  • Decreased grip strength
  • muscles at the base of the thumb may waste away
  • difficulty distinguishing between hot and cold by touch

    • Treatments

  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • physical therapy
  • cortisone injections
  • conservative sports chiropractic
  • soft tissue therapies / massage
  • yoga
  • acupuncture
  • surgery

    • Prevention

  • perform regular exercises to improve strength and flexibility of the wrists
  • take frequent breaks at work
  • wear splints to keep the wrists straight, especially at night
  • in cold climates, wear gloves to keep hands and wrists warm and loose
  • perform activity with appropriate posture/technique
  • make sure work place is ergonomically appropriate

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    2475 Bethel Rd. SE, Ste 102, Port Orchard, WA 98366         Tel: 360.895.4844         Fax: 360.895.4834      

    The information contained on this page is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition but is provided for information only.
    Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.