Repeated hand and wrist movements, especially if they are done in awkward positions when the wrist is bent (flexed), can cause swelling or thickening of tissues within the carpal tunnel.

These movements are done in every part of our lives, such as in:

• Work (such as using a computer; cutting meat; repairing cars; construction, especially when using vibrating tools; prolonged bar-code scanning).
• Daily activities (such as cooking, cleaning, gardening).
• Hobbies (such as needlework, knitting, painting, holding a book while reading).
• Sports (such as tennis, golf, bicycling).