"The most common conditions causing wrist pain are Carpal Tunnel syndrome, Tenosynovitis, RSI and Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs), Neurological problems and referred pain from the neck"

Principal Causes

• Pressure on the Carpal Tunnel (inside of the wrist)
• Sustained work with the wrist bent: up, down or to either side
• Gripping the mouse too tightly
• Using excessive force, hitting the keyboard too hard
• "Hovering" over the keys when not actually keying (sustained muscle contraction)
• Unnecessary repetition of keystrokes / mouse movement
• Only able to use one hand
• Using a desk not deep enough to allow a wrist rest
• Another area that you may not realise as potentially causing pain in the wrists and hands is the neck, and it is certainly worth reading the page on neck pain

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Carpal tunnel is a narrow connective tissue passage in the hand, through which run nine tendons. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by swelling of the synovial sheets, which because of the narrow space, press on the medianus nerve. This creates pains in the hand and wrist and a "sleeping" prickling feeling in the fingers. The pain can occur when the underside of the wrist is pressed against the table and is bent upwards to use the mouse.

Overtaxing the Turning Muscle of the Lower Arm

When the palms of the hands are turned downwards for operating the mouse or typing, the pronator muscle in the lower arm is tensed. If it
remains tensed over a long period it can begin pressing on the medianus nerve that runs just below the muscle, causing pain.

Our Physiotherapist says: "If you feel pain, numbness or tingling, improve the ‘way’ you work and seek medical advice. Remember: early intervention = easier cure."

The above information covers only the most common causes and is far from a complete reference. If you would like further advice or information please
contact us.

Head and Neck Pain

Ankle Pain

Shoulder Pain

Arm Pain

Back Pain

Hand and Wrist Pain