Carpal tunnel syndrome

What it is

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is squeezed where it passes through the wrist. The main symptom is numbness and tingling that comes and goes in the thumb, the index and middle fingers, and the thumb side of the ring finger.

Who gets it

It seems to come from a mix of genes and environment. Things that raise the risk include:

• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• An underactive thyroid
• Obesity
• Heavy hand work, or work with vibrating tools

Symptoms often get worse with forceful, repetitive use of the hands and wrists.

Why it’s worth treating early

Carpal tunnel syndrome that goes on for a long time can damage the nerve for good: constant numbness, and weakness and wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb.

Habits that help

• Take regular breaks from repetitive hand work
• Set up your workstation with ergonomic equipment, like a wrist rest
• Try alternatives to the keyboard, such as voice dictation
• Get it checked early, before numbness becomes constant