Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
CTS is primarily caused by increased pressure on the median nerve within the wrist’s carpal tunnel, often due to swelling or inflammation. This pressure, known as compressive neuropathy, may result from various factors, though the exact cause is often unknown and related to individual anatomy.

Contributing Conditions Include: Rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis Gout, amyloidosis, infections Arthritic bone spurs, tumors, ganglion cysts Wrist fractures or dislocations

Activity-Related Causes: Repetitive wrist motions or forceful gripping Vibration exposure at work Holding the wrist bent or in a fist position (e.g., during sleep, reading, or driving) These positions can increase pressure, leading to numbness and tingling. Initially, symptoms may resolve with movement, but over time they may appear more quickly and last longer, eventually becoming constant.

Risk Factors: Age (more common over 40), female gender Obesity, diabetes, alcohol addiction, fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism Family history and pregnancy (due to hormonal changes and fluid retention)

While sleep or driving may worsen symptoms, they are not root causes but aggravating factors. Diagnosis often requires expert evaluation to determine the true source of symptoms.