How Can Online Shopping Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Online shopping continues to grow across the United States and around the world. By 2026, experts predict 230.6 million people in the United States will do their shopping online. With technology now at our fingertips, on smartphones, tablets and laptops, it’s easier than ever to browse, click and buy. But spending more time on these devices can put extra strain on your wrists. Staying mindful of your habits can help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from interfering with your daily activities.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Your wrist contains a small, narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel. Imagine it as a tunnel with a floor made of wrist bones and a roof made of a strong ligament. A key nerve, called the median nerve, and several tendons travel through this tunnel from your forearm into your hand. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the pressure inside this tunnel increases. This pressure can build up for a few reasons. The tendons and the nerve inside the tunnel might swell, or the ligament that forms the roof of the tunnel can thicken. When this happens, the increased pressure squeezes and irritates the median nerve.

This condition can develop from several causes, including overuse from daily activities, repetitive hand motions, or poor wrist positioning during tasks (bad ergonomics). It can also result from a direct injury to the wrist or occur during pregnancy due to fluid retention. 

Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Tingling and numbness in the hand or wrist, mainly on the palm side of the thumb, index, long and ring fingers
• Sharp pain that shoots up the arm or down to the fingers
• Hand stiffness or cramping, especially in the early morning
• Trouble making a fist
• Hand weakness, clumsiness and dropping objects

When should I schedule an appointment with a doctor? 

You should schedule an appointment with a doctor if you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as tingling, numbness, pain or weakness in your hand or wrist that do not improve with rest or self-care. Early treatment can prevent symptoms from getting worse and help you find relief. Your doctor can recommend options like rest, night splinting and stretching exercises based on the severity of your symptoms.

Proper typing technique is also important. When you use a keyboard and mouse, keep them level with or below your elbows. This adjustment helps prevent you from working with bent wrists.

What supplies and accessories can help support my wrists while online shopping or working? 

Several supplies and accessories can help support your wrists while working or shopping online. These include ergonomic keyboards, mice and writing pens. You can also use a wrist cushion in front of your keyboard or a vertical computer mouse.

Your doctor may suggest other treatments. These can include local cortisone injections into the wrist and anti-inflammatory medication. If symptoms continue after medical management, we offer solutions. Minimally invasive outpatient surgical options with little downtime can provide a lasting cure for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Learn more about orthopedic surgeon Carol Meyer, MD.