The flexor tendons which bend the fingers run through this same tunnel, making the space rather tight. There may be associated weakness in grip and a feeling of incoordination.
Some people are more likely to get carpal tunnel syndrome than others.
For example, people who are born with small tunnels in the wrist or who have a tendency to collect fluid around their tendons and joints are more likely to have problems with pressure on the median nerve. CTS also occurs more often in women than men, usually between the ages of 30 and 70 years. People who have medical problems such rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and renal failure are also more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions create varying degrees of swelling, inflammation and susceptibility of nerves to injury. Since office activities can sometimes exacerbate CTS, it is a good idea to examine the way you work.