The carpal tunnel, an intricate pathway formed by bones and ligaments within the wrist, serves as a home to the median nerve and nine tendons. The vital role of the median nerve is to transmit signals from the brain to the hand muscles, while also governing sensation in select fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome arises when the median nerve undergoes pressure. This pressure disrupts the normal functioning of the hand’s muscles and tendons, resulting in pain, tingling, or numbness. If left unaddressed, these symptoms can escalate progressively, leading to a decline in both dexterity and strength in the affected hand.
The main causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Repetitive motion injuries: This can occur when the same motions are made repeatedly in a short period, such as typing or using a mouse all day. Repetitive movements can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome because it can lead to inflammation, which puts pressure on the median nerve.
- Wrist injury: Wrist injuries, such as a broken bone or dislocation, can lead to swelling and inflammation of the carpal tunnel, which puts pressure on the median nerve.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can cause swelling in the wrist, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Thyroid disorders: Swelling of the thyroid gland can lead to additional pressure on the median nerve.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight can put additional pressure on the median nerve.
Pregnancy: Changes in hormones during pregnancy can cause swelling in the wrist, which puts extra pressure on the nerve.