Surprising Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Part 2)

The typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling of the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. Night pain may be so severe as to waken the person, but can often be alleviated by shaking, hanging, or massaging the hand. Weakness, numbness and loss of function can occur if the condition progresses.

Most people associate carpal tunnel syndrome with office workers, since the occurrence of carpal tunnel as a result of using a computer keyboard has received a lot of press. In this two part article we discuss some of the other lesser known causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

CLICK HERE for Part 1 of This Article to See More Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Medical Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Most people do not realize that, in addition to motion and trauma, several diseases and medical conditions are associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In some cases, such as diseases like Arthritis, the medical condition itself is what narrows or impeded the “carpal tunnel” putting pressure on the affected nerves. In other cases an injury to the wrist area – such as a wrist fractures and dislocations – is the direct cause of the narrowing of the carpal tunnel.

In other situations, conditions such as diabetes, gout, can cause changes in the body that contribute to the pressure on the median nerve.

Other medical conditions that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome are Amyloidosis, which is an infiltration of the liver, kidneys & spleen with a starch-like substance. Hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid gland, can also contribute to CTS.

Tumors of the tendon sheaths, as well as wrist cysts can also be responsible for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Women’s Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Three times more women than men suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. In part, this is due to women naturally having smaller wrists and carpal tunnels to begin with.

However, in addition to occupational factors, physical and hormonal changes in a woman’s body can contribute to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, and menopause can all cause or contribute to increasing the volume of the contents of the carpal tunnel, resulting in compression of the median nerve.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Doctor Troy, MI

If you live in the Troy, MI area, and think you may be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, contact Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Top Troy, MI Area Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Doctor: 248.335.2638