The carpal tunnel is a passageway within the wrist surrounded by wrist (carpal) bones and the transverse carpal ligament. Through this “tunnel” or passageway are nine tendons and the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tissue around the tendons swells and puts pressure on the nerve.
While anyone can get carpal tunnel it tends to be more prevalent in women and older people. And while the exact causes may remain unknown, the following are some factors that can contribute to carpal tunnel.
Heredity. If this passageway within the wrist is smaller, due to heredity, an individual can be more susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Repetitive motion. Repeating the same motion over and over can aggravate the tendons and bring on swelling that leads to carpal tunnel symptoms.
Pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes and water retention, pregnant women can experience carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other health conditions. Anything that might cause swelling, like rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, diabetes, thyroid gland conditions and more can result in carpal tunnel syndrome.
While symptoms of carpal tunnel include hand pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness, these can be symptoms of other conditions. It is best to have any symptoms checked by an orthopedic doctor, who is extensively trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. Proper diagnosis by your orthopedist insures you will get the proper treatment.
