If you work at a computer all day, you have probably heard the rumors or maybe know some co-workers who have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s a fairly common occurrence around office workplaces, so it has been said that regular keyboard and mouse use are a cause of carpal tunnel syndrome.

It’s a pretty straightforward question: can you get carpal tunnel from working at a computer all day? So why is the answer not a clear-cut yes or no? That’s because it depends heavily on risk factors such as your personal health history, the specific job being performed, and each individual’s workstation.

What is Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel is caused by inflammation and swelling in the wrist that eventually pinches the median nerve. When compressed, the median nerve can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in your thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of your ring finger, reducing function.

Carpal Tunnel Causes

It is a misconception to broadly state that computer keyboard and mouse use causes carpal tunnel. In fact, there’s no evidence that would suggest that keyboard or mouse use increases your risk of developing the condition. However, evidence does suggest that carpal tunnel is more likely to develop in those whose occupation requires repetitive motion that puts strain on the wrist – which could potentially develop from incorrect keyboard use.

If you have a poorly set up workstation, you may require an ergonomic makeover to help you prevent carpal tunnel from developing. Your arms should not feel strained to reach your keyboard, your monitors should be right in your line of vision, not requiring you to crane your neck. Your chair should have you sitting straight up with your feet planted flat on the ground. Adjust your keyboard so that your elbows remain at a 90-degree angle or greater to reduce nerve compression. If any of these are positions are even slightly off, you may be setting yourself up to develop long term injuries.

Carpal tunnel stemming from work-related overuse is typically caused by jobs that require a constant firm grip with the hands as well as vibrating action. If you happen to be in the construction industry and frequently use power tools such as a jackhammer, then you fall into this category of occupations with higher risk. Occupational therapy for workers at a greater risk of carpal tunnel can help prevent this disorder or keep your condition from worsening.

In addition to overuse, age is a risk factor since musculoskeletal conditions tend to be more likely to occur as you get older. Additionally, women generally tend to develop carpal tunnel much more frequently than men. Those with preexisting medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis are also more likely to develop additional complications.

This condition can be very painful for workers, and without carpal tunnel treatment with occupational therapy, it may prevent you from being able to perform your full job duties or even working at all. If you are suffering and want to finally find relief, request an appointment with one of our carpal tunnel specialists online or call 210-342-2777 today.