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Contents
  • Biological Factors: It's in Your Genes
  • Health Conditions: The Bigger Picture
  • Occupational Hazards: Work-Related Risks
  • Lifestyle Factors: Choices That Matter

Are You at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Are You at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Understanding Your Risk

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) affects millions, but some people are more likely to develop it than others. Knowing your risk factors can help you take steps to prevent CTS or catch it early.
Contents
  • Biological Factors: It's in Your Genes
  • Health Conditions: The Bigger Picture
  • Occupational Hazards: Work-Related Risks
  • Lifestyle Factors: Choices That Matter

Biological Factors: It's in Your Genes

Some CTS risk factors are beyond our control. Women are three times more likely to develop CTS than men, possibly due to hormonal factors and having naturally smaller carpal tunnels. Age plays a role too, with CTS most common in adults aged 30-60. Genetics can also increase your risk, especially if close family members have CTS.

Health Conditions: The Bigger Picture

Certain medical conditions can raise your CTS risk. Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis are strongly associated with CTS. Obesity is another significant risk factor, as excess fatty tissue in the carpal tunnel can compress the median nerve. Pregnancy can cause temporary CTS due to fluid retention and hormonal changes.
Factors increasing the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including genetic predisposition, age, gender, obesity, diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy.

Occupational Hazards: Work-Related Risks

Your job can significantly impact your CTS risk. Occupations involving repetitive hand motions, such as assembly line work, typing, or using vibrating tools, are associated with higher CTS rates. Poor ergonomics in the workplace, like improper keyboard or mouse positioning, can also contribute to CTS development.

Lifestyle Factors: Choices That Matter

Some lifestyle choices can influence CTS risk. Smoking has been linked to increased CTS risk, possibly due to reduced blood flow to the median nerve. Excessive alcohol consumption may also play a role. Regular physical activity, especially exercises that strengthen the hands and wrists, may help reduce CTS risk.

FAQs

Can stress cause CTS?

Stress itself doesn't cause CTS, but may worsen symptoms.

Is CTS hereditary?

There's a genetic component, but it's not directly inherited.

Can children get CTS?

It's rare in children but possible, especially with certain medical conditions.

Does hand size affect CTS risk?

Smaller wrists may have higher risk due to less space in the carpal tunnel.

Can vitamin deficiencies cause CTS?

Some studies suggest B6 deficiency may play a role, but more research is needed.

Knowledge is Prevention

Understanding your CTS risk factors empowers you to take proactive steps for hand health.
Concerned about your CTS risk? Discuss your personal risk factors with Doctronic and learn prevention strategies.
Additional References
  1. Kozak A, et al. Association between work-related biomechanical risk factors and the occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome: an overview of systematic reviews and a meta-analysis of current research. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2015; 16:231.
  2. Newington L, et al. Carpal tunnel syndrome and work. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2015; 29:440.
  3. Pourmemari MH, et al. Carpal tunnel release: Lifetime prevalence, annual incidence, and risk factors. Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:497.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.