What causes carpal tunnel? – Bone and joint specialists

Carpal tunnel, also called carpal tunnel syndrome, is a condition that affects the connective tissue and joints of the wrist. It can cause tingling, numbness, weakness, pain and even swelling. You’ve probably heard of carpal tunnel syndrome and its connection to things like typing or using a computer for too long. However, carpal tunnel syndrome is much more complex than that. Let’s explore the common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome so you understand your carpal tunnel treatment options.

What causes carpal tunnel?

To understand why these different things cause carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s best to understand what causes the symptoms to occur. Carpal tunnel occurs when pressure is placed on the median nerve. Pinching or compressing these nerves leads to the symptoms people are familiar with. Irritating or inflaming the surrounding connective tissue causes the tissue to swell. This can compress the median nerve. Basically, the cause of carpal tunnel is anything that irritates the connective tissue surrounding the median nerve. Let’s look at the most common causes of that irritation.

Sex

As a woman, you are biologically susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome. This is because the area through which the median nerve passes is much smaller compared to men. This allows irritated tissue to compress the nerve more easily.

Injury

Any type of injury, such as a wrist fracture, drastically increases your chance of experiencing carpal tunnel. This is because the connective tissue is probably already inflamed or swollen. You will likely experience carpal tunnel due to a wrist injury, especially if you further irritate the wrist.

Repetitive wrist movements

Repetitive wrist movements can place disproportionate pressure and strain on a particular ligament or tendon in your wrist. This leads to irritation for extended periods of time and can compress the median nerve. This is where the stereotype of typing or using a mouse causing carpal tunnel comes from. It is entirely possible to develop carpal tunnel from using a mouse and keyboard for extended periods of time.

Seek treatment

Carpal tunnel often goes away on its own over time. However, chronic carpal tunnel may be present if the irritation persists. Fortunately, our staff at the Bone and Joint Specialists can help you with carpal tunnel treatment. Our team of doctors consists of experts in their field who can help you determine the cause of your wrist irritation and treat it at the source. If you are suffering from carpal tunnel, contact Bone and Joint Specialists today at 219-795-3360.