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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), the most common of the Repetitive Motion illnesses, is known medically as a "nerve entrapment disorder." According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is the number one cause of occupational cumulative trauma injury in the United States.
The carpal tunnel, located in the wrist, is a narrow space surrounded by a solid structure of bone and ligament. Strung through this small passageway are nine flexor tendons and the median nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the hand and fingers. The syndrome begins when the space inside the tunnel gets smaller or when the contents of the tunnel enlarge.
Occupationally-induced CTS is a disorder that occurs when the tendons and/or their protective covering become inflamed and swollen due to excessive movement. This enlargement causes the tendons to compress and ultimately damage the median nerve, which results in impaired sensation and motor function of the hand and fingers. |
