WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a painful nerve problem that interferes with the use of your hand. It occurs when tissue or bone puts pressure on the nerve that runs from your neck through your wrist to your fingers. At first, you may have numbness, tingling, or burning in your hand. Shooting pain in your wrist or forearm may follow and your grip may become weak.
WHAT IS THE CARPAL TUNNEL?
The Carpal Tunnel is a narrow, rigid opening formed by bones and ligaments (tissue that connects bones). The Median Nerve passes through the carpal tunnel, carrying messages between the hand and the spinal cord.
WHAT CAUSES CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Wear & Tear – repetitive hand movements, such as working on an assembly line, at a computer, or with power tools, can cause the tendons to become inflamed and press the nerve against the carpal tunnel.
A Misaligned Joint – an injury to the wrist or arthritis in the wrist joint can cause a bone to protrude in to the carpal tunnel. The tunnel becomes narrower, putting pressure on the median nerve. An injury to the neck can also cause the median nerve to swell and press against the tunnel.
Fluid Retention – can cause the tissue in the carpal tunnel to swell and presses on the median nerve.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT WRIST PROBLEMS?
To keep pressure off the nerve in your wrist, keep your wrist in a neutral (straight) position. Avoid twisting, bending, pinching, or pressing motions. Rest your hand often. Avoid making repetitive movements or holding objects in one position for long periods.
