Question

Mrs. Anderson is a 35-year-old woman who has been recently diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. She has two young children and asks the clinician what the chances are that they will also develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Which of the following responses would be correct regarding the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome?

A) Carpal tunnel syndrome commonly occurs in families. Genetic factors are thought to account for about half the risk of developing carpal tunnel.
B) Only people with occupations that require repeated flexion extension of the wrist, use of hand tools that require forceful gripping, or hand tools that vibrate are at risk for developing carpal tunnel.
C) An underlying musculoskeletal disorder must be present for a person to develop carpal tunnel.
D) Carpal tunnel syndrome only occurs in the presence of a hormonal imbalance.

Answer 1

Genetic factors contribute to about half the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, indicating some familial occurrence. However, repetitive wrist use and other factors also play a substantial role. Preventive and early treatments are crucial for managing symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct response to Mrs. Anderson's question would be: Carpal tunnel syndrome commonly occurs in families. Genetic factors are thought to account for about half the risk of developing carpal tunnel. This means that while genetics can play a part in the predisposition to carpal tunnel syndrome, it doesn't guarantee that her children will develop the condition.

Factors other than genetics are also important in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. This includes repetitive use of the wrist, such as with computer work, use of vibrating tools, or tasks that require a strong grip. The syndrome is the result of compression of the median nerve, which travels through the carpal tunnel formed by the carpal bones and the flexor retinaculum.

Surgical intervention by cutting the carpal ligament can relieve pressure on the median nerve and is considered more effective than nonsurgical treatments; recurrence after surgery is rare. Prevention and early treatment are key in managing symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, which includes pain, numbness, and muscle weakness in areas of the hand supplied by the median nerve.