Several injuries can be caused by motions that are performed over and over again, especially carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel has several symptoms to watch for especially if you suffer repetitive stress injury.

Individuals who work on a computer on a consistent basis, those who work in manufacturing, and even those who play sports or several different types of musical instruments may suffer from stress injuries that are considered to be repetitive. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common type of RSI. Here, you will learn about the various symptoms that are often associated with carpal tunnel.

Early symptoms are usually noted as a tingling of the hand. Often people describe this as similar to the sensation when your foot “falls asleep” and you have a prickly feeling when you change position. The tingling is often in the wrist, and if present in the hand is most frequently on the fingers. Some people may also have a tingling sensation in the lower arm on the side closest to the body. Among the fingers, the thumb, index, and middle finger are most frequently affected and only rarely does the tingling spread beyond the fingers to the palm of the hand. This is due to the nerves coming from these areas passing closest to the inflamed “tunnel” and having signals disrupted by the compression the tunnel wall creates.

The next symptom you should be aware of is weakness in the hand and in the wrist. There are several muscles that run along the arm and in the wrists and hands that carpal tunnel can effect. If your carpal tunnel is caused by a repetitive stress injury, it is actually very possible that the inflammation from this injury will effect and even compress these muscles. This can cause the muscles to weaken. In addition, if the muscles are compressed, it is quite possible the muscle is not getting the necessary oxygen and circulation. This means you could experience numbness in the wrists and hands.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a complex ailment that may cause many symptoms. Those already referred to are some of most typical symptoms that sufferers report. In addition, there can be different symptoms, for example:

1.The failure to hold on as you did before the onset of other symptoms.

2.You may find that the hand feels as if it is falling asleep.

3. You may experience pain or soreness in the forearm between hand and elbow.

4. It is possible that the fingers and the wrist will begin to feel ’stiff’.

The easiest motions like closing the zipper on your purse, or starting your car by turning the key can become impossible.

This guide will give you the signs to watch out for if you think that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. If your symptoms fit the descriptions, then consider a consultation with a medical professional. They will make the official diagnosis and you can decide where to proceed from there.

Of course, the easiest way to avoid most forms of carpal tunnel syndrome is often to simply upgrade your workstation. If you’re tired of the one-size-fits-all equipment that came with your computer, visit Ergonomic Resources today!

- Frank Barnett

Filed under: Category Career, Health | Tags: by admin