Carpal Tunnel Information

This section covers the definition, symptoms, and practical preventions for Carpal Tunnel Syndrom, or CTS. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is commonly misspelled as "Carpel Tunnell."

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a canal that travels through your wrist. In this canal are your nerves and several important tendons. Compression or swelling of or around the carpal tunnel creates what we now call the "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome."

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms:

The first and foremost symptoms are usually experienced when trying to fall asleep. Some of the symptoms include:

• Paresthesias (tingly feelings)
• Numbness
• Loss of grip
• Weakness
• Pain

If you ONLY experience pain that does not also have numbness, it is probably not carpal tunnel syndrome.

Major causes for carpal tunnel syndrome are usually heavy, traumatic movements to the wrist and hands. Construction workers and related fields are more likely to develop CTS. Family history and genetics are also major factors. Office related hand activity (keyboards, mouse moving and clicking) could possibly contribute to CTS development but were found by Harvard University to NOT be a major factor.

Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

• Using mouse pads with wrist cushions.
• Using a keyboard wrist pad.
• Positioning one's self to a comfortable typing position.
• Immobilizing wrist braces (not really an option for gamers)
• Taking vitamin B, hypercium, and amino acids (eat protien)
• Taking frequent 10-30 second breaks.

Be sure to contact your doctor immediately if you think you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.