What is Causing Your Carpal Tunnel Symptoms?

Carpal tunnel syndrome and its causes can be quite controversial at times, depending on who you listen to! For many patients the actual cause of their carpal tunnel syndrome is unknown, however, many feel it is due to repetitive hand activities at work or play. Some studies have shown that increased pressure across the wrist or (carpal tunnel) from repetitive and or awkward wrist movements may increase the chances of getting carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in some people. While other studies have shown that medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and obesity just to name a few, puts a person at a greater risk. And even more so if they have one or more of these conditions coupled with repetitive hand or wrist activities.

Really almost any condition that makes the carpal tunnel area smaller (i.e. born with a small carpal tunnel, arthritis, wrist fracture etc..) or if a condition makes the things (i.e. tendons, tissues) inside the carpal tunnel larger (by inflammation or swelling)...all these things can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome as more pressure is put on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel area of your wrist.

We also know that genetics can play a role in who gets and who doesn't get carpal tunnel syndrome. From XRAYS and MRI studies we now know that some people are just born with smaller carpal tunnels than others, so they may get CTS quicker or easier than someone else. The shape and dimension of your wrist may put you at risk for getting carpal tunnel syndrome.