Carpal tunnel syndrome

Causes & Prevention

There are Ways to Reduce the Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

You can reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome by taking the following precautions:

  • Reduce your force and relax your grip
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Watch your form

Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Job tasks that require a combination of repetitive, forceful and awkward or stressed motions of your hands and wrists can put you at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Examples of these include using power tools — such as chippers, grinders, chain saws or jackhammers — and heavy assembly line work, such as occurs in a meatpacking plant.

How Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Develop?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a problem caused by repetitive or excessive movement of the hand and wrist.

Hand movement requires the action of muscles and tendons, and with repetitive or excessive movement, the tendon lubricating system can break down. Here is how it can happen:

What Does It Mean When Medical Experts Say "Race" Is A Risk Factor For Certain Diseases?

Editor's Note:

"Race" is sometimes mentioned as a risk factor in the development of certain cancers and a number of other diseases. When you read this in a discussion about an illness, note that the explanation seldom refers to anything biological. Instead, it usually refers to behavior, such as eating habits. The kinds of behavior usually mentioned as risk factors are culturally determined. They are not genetic or biological.