What is Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a computer keyboard is probably the most common cause of carpal tunnel. The condition occurs most often in people 30 to 60 years old and is more common in women than men. Other causes include:

• Sewing

• Driving

• Assembly line work

• Painting

• Writing

• Use of tools (especially hand tools or tools that vibrate)

• Sports such as racquet ball or handball

• Playing some musical instruments

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or both hands

• Numbness or tingling of the palm of the hand

• Pain extending to the elbow

• Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands

• Problems with fine finger movement (coordination) in one or both hands

• Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term cases)

• Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags (a common complaint)

• Weakness in one or both hands