Don’t Blame Your Job or Screens for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What are the true underlying causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist pain and hand numbness? It’s common to attribute wrist pain or hand numbness to activities like typing, but the reality is more complex. According to orthopedic surgeon Alejandro Badia MD, specializing in upper limb treatments, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is often due to hormonal changes, underlying inflammatory diseases, or wrist anatomy, not job-related activities.
Wrist Pain, Hand Numbness & Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
CTS occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand through a narrow tunnel in the wrist, becomes pinched and inflamed. This inflammation can result from irritated tendons or other conditions that cause swelling. Symptoms include wrist or forearm pain, persistent burning, tingling or numbness in the fingers, and decreased hand strength.
Higher Risk Among Women
Women are three times more likely than men to develop CTS, primarily due to their anatomically narrower wrist channels and hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal fluctuations can lead to fluid retention and thicken the extracellular matrix in the wrist, resulting in median nerve compression. Statistics show that over 20 percent of pregnant women develop CTS.
Other Risk Factors
Other conditions increasing CTS risk include wrist injuries, inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction. Despite popular belief, studies have not conclusively linked repetitive wrist activities like typing to the development of CTS, although they can aggravate existing symptoms.
Historical Perspective
CTS was described as far back as 1025 AD by medieval Persian physician Avicenna in his book “Canon of Medicine.” He linked chronic nerve impingement in the wrist to both physical disorders and lifestyle factors such as poor nutrition and lack of sleep.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Dr. Badia emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis. Untreated CTS can make it difficult to form a fist, coordinate fingers, or perform simple tasks like buttoning a shirt. It can also lead to muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Initial treatments for CTS are typically conservative, involving wrist splints at night, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Some studies support the use of vitamins B6 and B12.
If symptoms persist or worsen, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary. This outpatient procedure, performed under local anesthesia, involves dividing the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to relieve nerve pressure. Endoscopic release, a recent breakthrough, allows this to be done through a tiny incision, reducing recovery time and scarring.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Prevention Tips
While CTS cannot always be prevented, Dr. Badia offers tips to reduce risk:
- Monitor Hand Position During Sleep: Keep hands close to the heart to prevent fluid pooling in the wrist canal.
- Relax Your Grip: Use a relaxed grip when handling tools, pens, or other items.
- Maintain Good Posture: Avoid hunching, which strains the arms, wrists, and hands. Keep wrists in a neutral position.
- Take Regular Breaks: During prolonged activities involving the hands or wrists, take frequent breaks.
- Keep Hands Warm: Cold hands are more susceptible to developing CTS.
Dr. Alejandro Badia is an Expert in Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Alejandro Badia, MD, FACS, (Bio) is an internationally renowned hand and upper-limb surgeon and the founder of Badia Hand to Shoulder Center and OrthoNOW®, a walk-in orthopedic care clinic in Miami Florida.
Dr. Badia specializes in treating hand and upper extremity concerns, including trauma, sports injuries, joint reconstruction, nerve injuries, and arthroscopic surgeries.
Dr. Badia now offers expert consultations and treatment services in New York City. Call today to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Alejandro Badia, MD, FACS
Gramercy Surgery Center
380 2nd Avenue
New York, NY 10010
(929) 605-4263