In a previous post, we discussed some of the warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, but you may be wondering, what is the root cause of the condition? Understanding the causes and some of the potential risk factors may give you a good idea if you are particularly susceptible to developing the condition. It may also help you take measures necessary to prevent developing a full-blown carpal tunnel injury.

Most simply, carpal tunnel syndrome results from increased pressure on the median nerve.  The median nerve is one that runs down the palm side of your forearm along with the tendons that control the motion of your fingers. The nerve and tendons reside in the carpal tunnel, which is a rather narrow passageway leading to your wrist. When pressure builds up in the carpal tunnel and presses against the nerve, the numbness, tingling, and sense of weakness of carpal tunnel syndrome is the result.

The causes of this pressure can vary, but may include:

Repetitive use or a specific injury. Repeated flexing and extending of the wrist tendons, especially when done with great force and for an extended period of time, can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel. In addition, any injury that causes swelling in the wrist or forearm puts additional pressure on the carpal tunnel and median nerve.

Physical characteristics. The peculiarity of an individual person's anatomy actually comes into play in causing carpal tunnel syndrome. If you have an unusually narrow carpal tunnel, it may not take much to increase the pressure upon your nerve and cause symptoms to develop.

Other health problems. Some common health issues such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid conditions, and hormonal changes that may occur during menopause or pregnancy can cause swelling or fluid build-up that puts pressure on the median nerve and leads to carpal tunnel syndrome.

In our next post, we will look at some of the particular risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Related Resources:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Mayo Clinic)