Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Risks

If work or hobbies are hand-intensive, involving a combination of awkward, repetitive wrist or finger motion, forceful pinching or gripping and working with vibrating tools, a person may be at higher risk of developing the condition.

Women are three times more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome than men, with an estimated lifetime risk as high as 7 percent. The risk of carpal tunnel syndrome also increases with age, with the highest risk between 40 and 60 years of age.

Certain health conditions can increase the risk, including some thyroid problems, diabetes, obesity and rheumatoid arthritis. Women who are pregnant, taking oral contraceptives or going through menopause also are at increased risk, most likely due to hormonal changes. Cigarette smoking also has been associated with an increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.