Repetitive pressure on the median nerve can cause which condition?

• A. Carpal tunnel
• B. Tennis elbow
• C. Plantar fasciitis
• D. Sciatica

Answer: (A)

Repetitive pressure on the median nerve leads to carpal tunnel syndrome. The median nerve runs through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, bordered by carpal bones and the flexor retinaculum. Repeated wrist movements or sustained pressure—common in detailed PMU work with gripping tools—can cause inflammation and swelling inside this tunnel, squeezing the nerve. When the nerve is compressed, you’ll typically feel numbness, tingling, or pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, and sometimes weakness in the hand that makes it hard to grip or hold small tools. This distinguishes it from other conditions: tennis elbow affects elbow tendons, plantar fasciitis affects the sole of the foot, and sciatica involves the leg. In the PMU context, adopting wrist-neutral positions, taking breaks, using ergonomic grips, and supporting the hand can help prevent or reduce carpal tunnel symptoms.