Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a passageway in the wrist formed by eight wrist bones which make up the floor and sides of the tunnel, and the transverse carpal ligament which is a strong ligament which stretches across the roof of the tunnel.  Inside the tunnel there are tendons and muscles which help us to flex our fingers and thumb.  Also running through the tunnel is a nerve cord which transmits messages to our brain about touch and feel.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome occurs when this nerve is squeezed.  This is often due to swelling in the tendons in the tunnel.  The symptoms which occur include numbness, burning and sometime tingling in the figures and thumb.  This is sometimes experienced in both hands and sometimes just in one hand.  It is likely that you will be most affected in the hand you favour (for example, if you are right handed this hand is likely to be affected more).  The symptoms often occur at night and therefore can disturb natural sleep patterns.  Relief can sometimes be found by massaging or shaking the hands.  The pain can often be very severe and can affect the fingers, whole hand and sometimes the arms.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome is caused by the repeated flexing and extending of the wrist when writing, typing, using a computer mouse etc.  The condition can be made worse by insufficient breaks and posture.  Therefore, the likelihood of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome developing can be minimized by an employer by ensuring regular breaks from repetitive work and correct office equipment and the correct positioning of this equipment (Desks, chairs and computer keyboards).

Most commonly the symptoms are treated by rest and anti-inflammatory pain killers, sometimes splints are necessary.  Occasionally surgery may be needed to relieve the symptoms.  If you have experienced these symptoms and needed treatment you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim and should speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer.