Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome typically develops from sustained or repetitive activities that increase pressure within the narrow carpal tunnel where your median nerve passes through your wrist. The key biomechanical factor is wrist position - any activity that keeps your wrist bent (either forward or backward) for extended periods increases pressure in the tunnel and compresses the nerve. Computer work is a classic culprit, especially when your keyboard and mouse are positioned too high or too low, forcing your wrists into sustained extension.

Repetitive hand movements, particularly those involving forceful gripping or pinching, significantly contribute to the problem. Assembly line work, using vibrating tools, playing musical instruments, or any activity requiring repeated flexion and extension of your fingers while gripping increases the mechanical stress on the median nerve. The combination of sustained wrist deviation with repetitive finger movements is particularly problematic because it maximizes the pressure within the carpal tunnel.

Poor ergonomics in daily activities compound the issue. Sleeping with your wrists curled under your pillow, holding your phone with a bent wrist for extended periods, or activities like knitting or crafts that require sustained pinch grip with wrist flexion all contribute to nerve compression. The position of your entire arm matters too - when your shoulders are rounded forward and your arms are internally rotated (common with poor desk posture), it can create tension throughout your entire arm that affects nerve function all the way down to your wrist.