Carpal Tunnel Syndrome DEFINITION Anatomy of the Carpal Tunnel Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a disorder of the hand caused by pinching or compression of the median nerve at the wrist. The nerve compression is usually secondary to thickening of the lining or synovium surrounding the nine tendons that travel through the carpal tunnel alongside the median nerve. INCIDENCE Carpal Tunnel Syndrome usually affects people who use their hands a lot, for example, doing repetitive movements such as typing. With advances in technology and the proliferation of computer terminals, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has increased dramatically over the past 10 years. It is predicted that this will be the major occupational hazard of the next millennium. The average worker is encouraged to work harder and faster, causing significant wear and tear on the delicate structures in the hand and wrist with resultant inflammation or synovitis of the tendons in the carpal tunnel and compression of the median nerve. PREVENTION It has been estimated that the cost to the employer for each case of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome requiring surgery is between $20,000 to $100,000. Several major companies nationwide have been able to significantly reduce the incidence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among workers by implementing preventive measures. For example, computer operators and typists are provided with properly designed chairs and terminals to ensure proper posture and wrist alignment. Tools have been modified to reduce the amount of pressure required to operate them. Employees are encouraged to rotate job tasks rather than doing the same activity continuously. Special wrist supports may be used to discourage faulty and harmful wrist positions. Workers are taught to stretch their fingers, thumbs and wrists at regular intervals. Strengthening the grip also helps. NEXT

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