Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. The median nerve originates from cervical spinal nerves and controls movement and sensation of the palm, thumb, and fingers. The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist, is formed by bones on the bottom and sides and a ligament which composes the top of the tunnel. The tunnel also contains nine tendons that are connected to the bones and muscles of the hand. Under various circumstances, these tendons may swell and enlarge, causing compression of the median nerve against the ligamentous roof. This results in the symptoms experienced in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Women are more commonly affected with carpal tunnel syndrome than men. Pregnant women are also at increased risk of developing this disorder.
Symptoms
Numbness and a “pins and needle” sensation are the most common symptoms experienced in carpal tunnel syndrome. Most often the thumb, index, and middle fingers are involved. Symptoms are often worse upon wakening or during activities that involve flexion and extension of the wrist. As the syndrome worsens, decreased grip strength makes it difficult to perform tasks with the involved hand.
Prevention
Appropriate positioning at work is the best way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Easy positioning tips include:
- Position yourself properly at your computer. Your screen should be 2 feet away from you and the top of your document should be at eye level.
- Set up your keyboard so that it is flat or slightly elevated. Do not have your keyboard slanted downward.
- Keep your wrists straight and elbows in a 90-degree angle while typing.
- Rest your wrists when you are not typing.
- Take frequent short breaks rather than one long break.
- Stretch your wrists before work, during breaks, and after work.
Exercises
Stretching exercises can often help alleviate the symptoms experienced in carpal tunnel syndrome. These stretches should be performed three to four times throughout the day.
