Causes And Risk Factors Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Medical Conditions Increasing The Risk Of Nerve Damage

Individuals suffering from various medical conditions are more prone to nerve damage. One of these diseases is diabetes. Just like diabetes causing neuropathy in the feet, it can damage the median nerve. In some cases, carpal tunnel syndrome is considered a precursor to diabetes due to nerve damage associated with the disease. It makes sense that if diabetes is affecting some nerves, it could affect the median nerve, causing pain, numbness, and tingling. If left untreated, it can lead to significant weakness in the fingers and thumb, which can affect daily life.

Other conditions can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, such as hypothyroidism and obesity. It is believed that people suffering from hypothyroidism have certain deposits in tissues that cause pressure on the median nerve, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome. There is ongoing research into the connection between obesity and carpal tunnel syndrome. While the correlation is still unclear, studies have found that weight loss can result in a decrease of carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

Discussing your medical conditions, work habits, and therapeutic measures with a doctor can help determine the best course of action for each case. Every person’s anatomy is a little different, so there should be an individualized plan for the patient based on their various health needs.