Common Causes Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway made up of bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand. Here’s an overview of carpal tunnel syndrome:
1. Repetitive Hand Movements: Activities that involve repetitive wrist and hand motions, such as typing, using a mouse, or assembly line work.
2. Anatomical Factors: Certain anatomical differences, such as a smaller carpal tunnel, can predispose individuals to CTS.
3. Injury: Wrist injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can cause swelling or deformities that compress the median nerve.
1. Numbness and Tingling: Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, but not the little finger.
2. Pain: Pain in the wrist or hand that may radiate up the arm.
3. Weakness: Weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects.
4. Night Symptoms: Symptoms often worsen at night, possibly waking the individual from sleep.
5. Clumsiness: Dropping objects frequently or having difficulty performing fine motor tasks.