Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
(CTS) and Morbid Obesity
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) concerns tingling and pain in the hand and forearm due to a compressed nerve at the wrist. Morbid or severe clinical obesity (meaning body mass index [BMI] 40+) is established as a risk factor for CTS.
Morbid Obesity Increases Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
According to one health study, the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is nearly four times greater than that of a normal-weight person. Severe clinical obesity is a higher risk factor for CTS than workplace activity that necessitates repetitive and forceful hand use.
Percentage of CTS Patients Who Are Obese
In a recent health study of carpal tunnel syndrome, 70 percent of CTS patients were overweight (BMI 25+) or obese (BMI 30+).
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Diabetes and Obesity
In some cases, compression of the median nerve at the wrist may be caused by type 2 diabetes. Morbid obesity is considered to be a major independent risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Guide To Excess
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