Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Anything that causes irritation, inflammation, fluid retention, or an abnormal growth in or around the carpal tunnel can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, including:

• Repetitive movements of the hands, wrists, or fingers—especially overactive use of a computer keyboard, certain musical instruments, or hand tools
• Use of vibrating equipment or tools
• A narrow carpal tunnel (due to heredity)
• Wrist injury:
  • Burns
  • Broken bones
  • Compression or crush injuries
• ]]>Arthritis]]>
• ]]>Diabetes]]>
• ]]>Raynaud's disease]]> , which impairs blood flow in the hands
• Water retention due to:
  • Kidney disease
  • ]]>Heart disease]]>
• Hormone-related conditions, such as:
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • ]]>Menopause]]>
  • ]]>Hypothyroidism]]>
  • ]]>Cushing's disease]]>
  • Excess growth hormone
• Medications, such as:
  • Birth control pills
  • Cortisone pills or shots
  • Some high blood pressure drugs
• Tumors and cysts in the carpal tunnel