Le carpal tunnel syndrome is manifested by numbness and tingling in the fingers, and loss of muscle strength in the wrist and the main affected.

Symptoms result from compression of the median nerve on the wrist (see diagram). In the wrist, the median nerve and flexor tendons of the fingers pass through a “tunnel” called carpal tunnel. This channel is relatively small. Any condition that reduces this space, such as inflammation, results in compression of the median nerve. Some movements fingers, especially the thumb, are then less controlled or not at all. The sensations in the hand can also be changed.

Le carpal tunnel syndrome affects around 11% of women and 3,5% of men¹⁵. It tends to appear either in your early fifties or past the age of 75. Symptoms are mild and transient at first, then intensify over time.

Causes

The origin of carpal tunnel syndrome is often multifactorial. The risk is higher in travailleurs exposed to the following situations.

• La repetition movements of the wrist and forearm for prolonged periods.
• Movements that require strength important in the hand.
• The postures binding on the hand.
• The manipulation oftools that vibrate.

At the moment, it is not known whether the computer work can contribute to the problem. Indeed, studies conducted so far have not established a clear link between regular keyboard use and carpal tunnel syndrome.^18,19. However, frequent use of mice (more than 20 hours per week) increases the risk, according to a study¹⁷.

Other possible causes include injury wrist, arthritis in the wrist and neurological damage as a result of diabetes.

Hormonal fluctuations experienced during menopause, pregnancy or a state of hypothyroidism create an environment conducive to carpal tunnel syndrome. During the pregnancy, for example, fluid retention adds pressure on the median nerve.

Evolution

La period symptoms vary depending on the cause. Usually can be treated carpal tunnel syndrome effectively without causing a permanent decrease in the volume of the muscles of the hand (atrophy).

Researchers observed, in one study, that in one third of cases, carpal tunnel syndrome resolved spontaneously, without treatment.¹⁶.

If symptoms are not relieved by usual treatments, surgery may be considered.