LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pressure
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Even though the increased number of people using computer keyboards has provoked much publicity about their risk for carpal tunnel syndrome, it is actually lower than those in occupations involving heavy labor. The force of the movement may... be a particular factor for CTS in typists. One study observed that typists with carpal tunnel syndrome struck the keys with greater force than those without the disorder. Some workers may not even be aware of the amount of force they exert while performing their jobs. For example, the fingers of typists whose speed is 60 words per minute exert up to 25 tons of pressure each day.
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The cause for carpal tunnel is unknown. Pressure on the nerve can occur for different reasons: swelling in the lining of the flexor tendons, dislocations, fractures and arthritis. Any of these can lead to the narrowing of the tunnel through which the nerve and tendons pass. If the tunnel narrows or the tendons become swollen, more pressure is exerted on the nerve. Continually sleeping with the hand in a bent position can lead to stress and pressure on the nerve, causing the same results. Some types of repetitive motions – typing, for example – can ... put pressure on this nerve if the hands are not in a proper position.
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In very advanced cases, a procedure called a Carpal Tunnel Release Operation is performed. It involves cutting the Transverse Carpal Ligament and letting it heal back together. This gives more room for the soft tissues and therefore lowers the pressure. Surgery is expensive, usually requires many weeks to recover, and is far from being a guaranteed cure. However, there is another approach. Even though the transverse carpal ligament doesn't automatically stretch to accommodate swelling, it can be stretched externally.
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Tapping on the carpal tunnel at the wrist may set off unpleasant shock like sensations into the hand. It indicates the median nerve is irritated or compressed at the wrist. Acutely flexing the wrist and holding it in that position increases the pressure on the nerve , again causing the unpleasant sensations radiating into the hand and forearm.
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If carpal tunnel syndrome does not respond to conservative treatment, then surgery is the next treatment option. During surgery, your doctor will open the carpal tunnel and cut the ligament at the bottom of the wrist, relieving the pressure.
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The tunnel is formed by a tough membrane that makes a 'roof' to a natural arch produced by a group of wrist bones (known as the carpal bones). The purpose of this membrane is to keep the many tendons, arteries and nerves that pass under it in place. When it thickens, it causes too much pressure on these structures, especially the sensitive nerve.
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