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Activities that increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome

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By Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH

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Activities that may increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Repetitive motions.
    • Continuous use of the hands and fingers, as when knitting or doing needlepoint with the wrist bent (flexed)
    • Frequent bending or twisting of the wrist, as when using a screwdriver
    • Repeated squeezing or gripping with the hand, as when using a spray bottle
    • Moving the fingers while the wrist is bent inward or flexed, as when playing musical instruments or typing
  • Use of vibrating tools such as sanders.
  • Use of a cane, wheelchair, or crutches, or doing certain sports (such as long-distance cycling) that require continuous forceful grasping with the wrist in an awkward position.
  • Bending the wrist during sleep.

Credits

Author Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics
Specialist Medical Reviewer David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
Last Updated October 29, 2008
Last Updated: 10/29/2008