Have you experienced pain or numbness in your hands after a long day of using your hands at work? There is a chance you may be experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling, or pain in the arms and hands. The median nerve is one of the three major nerves located in the forearm and hand. The median nerve serves an important role in helping the hand and wrist function properly, and it’s the only nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel.
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve gets squeezed in the wrist. Common symptoms for carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling, burning, pain, or numbness in the hands and fingers. When the condition worsens, it can significantly reduce function in the hands.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
People often think carpal tunnel syndrome develops through rigorous use of the hands and arms. However, carpal tunnel can develop even when you take part in mild activities.
Below are some of the most common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome:
Repetitive Movement
One common reason for carpal tunnel is repeated motions over long periods of time. Individuals who use their hands at work can develop carpal tunnel syndrome because they repeat the same hand motions for several hours a day. This can aggravate the wrist and median nerve due to overuse.
Incorrect Hand and Wrist Positions
Another cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is the incorrect positioning of hands and wrists. This is particularly true in the workplace.
Let’s say you have an office job that requires you to type for several hours a day. If you are positioning your wrists and hands incorrectly, over time, you can develop carpal tunnel. That’s why it’s important to take breaks and stretch your hands and fingers throughout the day.
Other Health Conditions
There are a handful of health conditions that can make you more susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome. They include diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, thyroid issues, and hormonal imbalance.
Genetics
Genetics can play a role and make certain individuals more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome in their lives. Additionally, it is more common in women than in men.
Typing and Carpal Tunnel
While there is little actual evidence that typing is a direct cause of carpal tunnel, there is evidence that incorrect typing practices can make it worse. For example, incorrect positioning of the keyboard and lack of support for the wrists can put extra strain on the median nerve, making carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms worse.
Fortunately, just because typing can make your carpal tunnel syndrome worse doesn’t mean you should be looking for another career. There is a lot you can do to manage your carpal tunnel symptoms, including the following ways to address the issue:
Ergonomic Treatments
One way to reduce pain while typing is to get ergonomically correct keyboards, desks, and chairs for your office space. Ergonomic office equipment is designed to offer special support to your body rather than you having to adjust to the equipment.
By using ergonomic furniture and equipment, you can ensure your hands and arms sit in the best positions possible. This can alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms and prevent typing from making it worse.
Alternative Treatments
Another way to reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms is to try other therapies like chiropractic care, acupuncture, and physical therapy. These treatments can help reduce pain and carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms significantly.
Fort Lauderdale Orthopedic Surgeon
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome or any other musculoskeletal condition, talk to an orthopedist about what treatment options are best for you. The experts at Total Orthopaedic Care in Broward County have a wealth of knowledge on musculoskeletal conditions and the latest and best treatments available today.
Call us at (954) 735-3535 to schedule an appointment, or fill out our appointment request form online here. Our goal is to help you live a fuller, more enjoyable, more pain-free lifestyle once again.
