“What are various factors that could cause carpal tunnel syndrome?”
My mother has been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. We do not have any family history of this condition. What could be the reason for her to have contracted this condition all of a sudden?
5 Answers
Carpal tunnel syndrome is about repetitive motion and overwork. It is important to always seek a medical evaluation by a licensed professional to ensure it is not the manifestation of something more serious. You also want to seek help sooner rather than later to prevent any further damage to the area.
There are many reasons why a person may develop carpal tunnel syndrome. It is more common in women than men and usually develops with aging. In most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, there is not an identifiable cause. That being said, there are certain conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and obesity that can predispose a person to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
Diabetes is the most common cause. Other medical conditions associated with an increased incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome are any thyroid disease and any inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis. Carpal tunnel can also be related to hormone fluctuations such as around menopause. Overuse of the hand is a less common cause than once thought!
Carpal tunnel occurs slowly and then becomes very bad.
Most commonly, carpal tunnel develops for no reason at all. However, there are some risk factors and other more unusual causes for the condition. Keep in mind, carpal tunnel is very common. No family history is necessary. No repetitive injury is necessary either. Quite often, it just occurs for no reason that is identifiable. In your specific situation, your local hand professional would be able to examine your mother and perhaps provide more insight.
Harrison Solomon, M.D.
Harrison Solomon, M.D.
