Compression of the nerve at the wrist is likely to happen when there is increased pressure on or within the tunnel.

This can occur with swelling around or in the wrist, with prolonged time spent with the wrist in a bent position, or prolonged positions of pressure or weight directly on the wrist.

• • Sleeping with your wrist and hand in a bent position, can compress the nerve, causing symptoms to occur while you sleep.
  • Activities performed in weight bearing such as push ups or yoga, may also cause compression.
  • Repetitive tasks such as forceful gripping and bending your wrist may produce symptoms.

When compression of the nerve happens, the symptoms you experience are numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in the fingers, hand and thumb.

These symptoms are often worse at night or after repetitive activities.

To assist in limiting your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, it is recommended:

• • To avoid keeping your wrist in a bent position for a long length of time
  • Avoid prolonged positions of weight bearing on the wrist or hand
  • Take breaks when doing repetitive tasks such as using the computer or heavy gripping.
  • If your job requires the use of tools or equipment with heavy vibration, make sure you take regular breaks to prevent the wrist tissues from becoming overloaded.