What does a baker kneading dough, an assembly line worker using power tools,
and a surgical nurse picking up and handing off delicate instruments have in
common? Their work involves repetitive wrist movements or vibration that may
put them at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. If your work also involves these
types of tasks, learn how to recognize the signs and prevent pain and injury.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow space in the wrist surrounded by bones and a
rigid ligament that houses the flexing tendons of the fingers and thumb as well
as the median nerve. The median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the
palm of the hand, controls the actions of the thumb, index, middle and ring
fingers. If the tendons swell and press or squeeze the median nerve you may
develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Certain job tasks, like repetitive wrist
movements, or exposure to vibration can put you at risk of this painful
disorder.

If you are experiencing tingling in the thumb and index, middle, and ring
fingers, night pain, and pain in your hand, arm and shoulder you may have
carpal tunnel syndrome. If the carpal tunnel syndrome progresses, you may also
feel numbness, loss of manual dexterity, and weakness of the hand making it
difficult to pinch and grasp. You may drop objects or be unable to unscrew
bottle caps, fasten buttons or turn keys with the affected hand. Your skin may
dry because of reduced sweating.

Further Information

AplusA-online.de - Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety