Carpal Tunnel Syndrome results from compression of the median nerve as it travels through a space in our wrists approximately the size of our index finger. This space is created by the configuration of our wrist bones and a tight supportive band of tissues called the transverse carpal ligament. Anything that narrows this space or restricts the blood flow to the nerve can cause carpal tunnel, such as working with a sustained grip with the wrist bent down.

Other contributing factors include arthritis and excessive use of caffeine or nicotine products which slow the efficiency of the nerve.

It is generally not just one thing that causes the development of carpal tunnel, but instead the cumulative effects of many tiny injuries to the median nerve and the surrounding tissue.

To Avoid Carpal Tunnel

1- Eat healthy, avoiding high salt foods and excessive use of caffeine or nicotine products.
2- Use a hammer rather than your hand to loosen things that are stuck.
3- Take frequent breaks from computer work to open and close your fingers and bend your wrists back and forth.
4- Release the mouse when not using it to avoid a static grip.
5- Don’t hold items such as pens firmer than you need to control them.

If you are concerned that you may be developing carpal tunnel, contact your physician as soon as possible for a therapy consult. At Lucas Therapies, our hand therapist can help you identify conditions that could be causing symptoms, lead you through rehabilitative exercise regimens, and and provide suggestions for lifestyle changes to reduce wrist stress.