A new medical study suggests that carpal tunnel syndrome
may be genetic, rather than cause by repetitive use.
“The idea that CTS is related specifically to
typing or overuse of the hands in general is pervasive
in modern society,” said David Ring, MD, senior
author of the study, to the American Academy of Orthopaedic
Surgeons. The findings provide important data to human
resources directors and could influence treatment options
being developed in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
“It is commonly accepted as true, but according
to the scientific evidence, the link between hand use
and carpal tunnel syndrome is overstated and may be inaccurate.
In contrast, there is strong evidence for an inherent,
genetic risk for CTS. CTS sufferers are most likely innocent
bystanders and should not be blamed for their illness,” Ring
said.
Patients with CTS experience hand numbness, and eventually
develop weakness and atrophy of some of the small hand
muscles that control the thumb.
Ring said that carpal tunnel syndrome remains poorly
understood. Pressure in the carpal tunnel (a tunnel formed
by the small wrist, or carpal, bones and the transverse
carpal ligament) is involved in the pathophysiology,
and release of the pressure by dividing the transverse
carpal ligament stops the process. The cause of the increased
pressure, however, remains unknown in the vast majority
of patients.
“This application of stringent science to theories
of causation may affect claims of disability, workers
compensation, and personal injury, Ring said. “It
should also influence the information that physicians
are providing their patients about carpal tunnel syndrome.”
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