Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Who’s at Risk and Why?

Posted on June 25, 2025

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common and often painful condition that affects millions of people each year. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into your hand through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. This pressure can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand and wrist.
 

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand. When the tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell or become inflamed, the tunnel narrows and puts pressure on the median nerve. Over time, this compression can lead to nerve damage and worsening symptoms.
 

Who’s at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can affect anyone, several factors may increase your risk:
 

• Occupation and Repetitive Hand Use: Jobs that require repetitive hand and wrist movements (such as assembly line work, typing, data entry, or using vibrating tools) can strain the tendons and contribute to nerve compression.

• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop CTS, possibly due to having smaller carpal tunnels.

• Age: CTS is more common in adults over the age of 40, though it can affect younger individuals with repetitive wrist strain or underlying conditions.

• Genetics: If carpal tunnel syndrome runs in your family, you may have a naturally smaller carpal tunnel or be more prone to developing inflammation in the area.
   

When to Consider Surgery

Most cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are treated conservatively at first with splinting, rest, activity modification, or corticosteroid injections. However, when symptoms persist or worsen, especially when there is muscle weakness or nerve damage, surgical intervention may be necessary.
 

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery is a minimally invasive option that uses a small camera and specialized instruments to release pressure on the median nerve. Benefits of the endoscopic approach often include:
 

• Smaller incisions

• Less postoperative pain

• Faster recovery time

• Reduced risk of scarring
   

This type of surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms or when the condition interferes significantly with daily activities and quality of life.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can significantly impact your ability to perform daily tasks, especially when left untreated. Understanding the risk factors, whether they are occupational, anatomical, or related to your overall health, can help you recognize early signs and seek timely care. If symptoms like numbness, tingling, or wrist pain are interfering with your quality of life, it may be time to explore your treatment options.
 

At East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hand and wrist conditions using the latest minimally invasive techniques, including Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery. Visit our office in Oakland, California, or call (510) 904-1100 today.