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Are you having a problem with numbness in your fingers? If you are there are a couple of possible explanations for this. The two most common problems that create numbness in the fingers are carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress injury. These two problems can both create this finger numbness, as well as other possible symptoms. With this in mind, here is a better look at these two issues and a bit more about them to help you determine which one you are probably dealing with.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the possible causes of finger numbness. The carpal tunnel actually extends through the wrist on the side of the palm, with its purpose being the protection of the median nerve and a variety of tendons as well. When there is too much pressure applied to this nerve this can lead to the problem of numbness, as well as other issues.

There are other possible symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome besides finger numbness, as you will discover. Often there will be tingling in the hands and fingers also. Another symptom can also be pain in the fingers, as well as the wrist and even up the arm. Weakness can also be another symptom related to carpal tunnel syndrome, even leading to the possibility of dropping things.

-The Risks - There are a variety of different risk factors that can make you more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome which you need to know about. Often occupations that involved making wrist motions that are repetitive can lead to the condition. Certain occupations, such as those that include working with computers, typing, and workers on assembly lines, can be more at risk. Pregnancy, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and even rheumatoid arthritis can make you more at risk as well.

Repetitive Stress Injury Another problem that can lead to finger numbness is repetitive stress injury. These injuries basically are injuries that can occur when you perform certain motions over and over again. In this case, it would include repetitively using your wrists and hands. Some of the injuries that can be included are epicondylitis, bursitis, tenosynovitis, tendonitis, and trigger finger.

Causes: Why does repetitive stress injury actually occur? Well it often occurs due to too many repetitions of a certain motion. Another reason for this type of injury is unnatural wrist movements. Muscle fatigue, over exertion and poor posture are other possible reasons for repetitive stress injuries.

Among the symptoms of repetitive stress injuries, finger numbness is only one of the symptoms involved. Among the variety of other symptoms that can indicate repetitive stress injuries are pain in the fingers and hands, tingling in these areas can also be a problem. Still other possible symptoms are loss of strength, loss of flexibility, redness in the area, and even possible swelling.

Both of these problems, carpal tunnel and repetitive stress injury, can lead to numbness in your fingers. You may need to see your doctor so he can decide which problem you are dealing with and to prescribe the proper treatment.