Carpal Tunnel is a type of repetitive stress injury or RSI that is caused by a repetitive motion – in this case, repeated compression of the medial nerve in the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is an opening in the hand, formed by wrist bones and a few ligaments. Compressing that nerve from time to time is normal as we go through our daily lives but with regular and repeated incidents, it can cause problems.
Technipages Explains Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This type of RSI has several warning signs and symptoms that can help identify it early. The first symptom is usually numbness around the palm and middle three fingers. This will be followed by medium to severe pain travelling all the way up the arm and to the shoulder. In extreme cases, it can lead to an inability to move the thumb properly, and lead to loss of motion. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented or at least mitigated by ergonomically designed office furniture, especially when it comes to desks, chairs, mice and keyboards.
Once the RSI has occurred, treatments can be relatively severe and include the use of a brace, cortisone injections or in extreme cases even surgery. Office workers and IT professionals are often especially at risk as the motion of using a mouse and keyboard compresses the median nerve significantly more often than normal, thus increasing the likelihood of several RSIs, including carpal tunnel. Ideally, the wrist should be relaxed and not bent or tensed when using computers and performing similar tasks.
Common Uses of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome is commonly referred to only as “carpal tunnel.”
- In addition to severe pain and movement issues, carpal tunnel syndrome can do permanent damage to the nerves of the hand.
- Compared to other RSIs, carpal tunnel syndrome is easily preventable through the use of suitable office equipment.
Common Misuses of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome is another word for tennis elbow.
