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There are many different symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome to watch for - this is especially true if you know that you suffer from repetitive stress injuries. These are injuries that are caused by motions that you perform over and over again.

Individuals who work on a computer on a consistent basis, those who work in manufacturing, and even those who play sports or several different types of musical instruments may suffer from stress injuries that are considered to be repetitive. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common type of RSI. Here, you will learn about the various symptoms that are often associated with carpal tunnel.

The first likely symptom from this condition is a tingling sensation in the hand, described by many individuals as 'pins and needles'. Many sufferers will feel experience this in the wrist and hand area - specifically on the fingers. Some individuals also feel this sensation in the forearm. This sensation is often on the inside of the arm, on the same side of the forearm as the thumb. This condition is most likely to affect the thumb, index and middle fingers. In severe (and rare) cases, this sensation may also be felt in the palm area of the hand. The main cause of this sensation is the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, near the 'tunnel'. Compression of the nerve delays and interferes with signals traveling along the nerve, producing the 'pins and needles' sensation.

The next symptom that you should watch for is weakness in the hand and the wrist. There are several muscles that run along the arm, in the wrist, and in the hand. If you have carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive stress injuries, it is quite likely that the inflammation as a result of these injuries affect the muscles and/or there is compression in the muscles as well. This may cause the muscles to become weak. In addition to this, if there is compression on the muscles it is likely that the muscle is not getting the necessary oxygen and circulation. This means that you may find that there is actual numbness in the wrist, as well as the hands in general.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a complex disorder that can result in various symptoms. The symptoms alluded to until now are among the most general symptoms that an individual may experience. There are additional symptoms, like:

1. You may be unable to grasp items as well as you used to.

2. You may have a tingling sensation in your hand as if it is falling asleep.

3: You may experience pain and discomfort in the arm which stretches from the elbow to wrist.

4. It is possible that the fingers and the wrist will begin to feel 'stiff'.

5. You may discover you are incapable of performing ordinary chores, like tying your shoelaces or unscrewing the lid of a jar.

This guide will give you the signs to watch out for if you think that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. If your symptoms fit the descriptions, then consider a consultation with a medical professional. They will make the official diagnosis and you can decide where to proceed from there.

Of course, the easiest way to avoid most forms of carpal tunnel syndrome is often to simply upgrade your workstation. If you're tired of the one-size-fits-all equipment that came with your computer, visit Ergonomic Resources today!