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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause your bodybuilding regime to quickly fall apart due to pain, tingling and weakness in the hands. Carple tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, the nerve running along the forearm and into the hand, becomes compressed in the carple tunnel, a narrow opening composed of bone and tendons.

Incorrect form while doing exercise routines can result in damage to the nerve going through the carpal tunnel. If you grip the bar or weight too tightly you cause the tendons to swell and put pressure on the nerve, which gives you the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Aching in your forearms and hands may be the first symptoms you notice. Perhaps you'll be awakened during your night time rest by numbness and tingling in your hands and fingers. (The little finger will not exhibit symptoms, since it is not controlled by the median nerve.) Those symptoms may slowly increase in the daytime, along with a decline in the strength of your grip. Pain and tingling may take up permanent residence, and you may observe weakness and a lack of control in the hands.

Sites such as bobybuilding.com are committed to helping the athlete overcome injuries and provide supportive forums for health concerns. Their injury recovery and prevention forum is an ideal place to discuss your concerns about carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, if you experience any signs or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or a RSI, it is important to contact your doctor to prevent the disease progression and discuss treatment options. Taking frequent breaks from those activities, especially ones which can lead to RSI's can help alleviate the symptoms. Stretching the hands and wrists to increase flexibility can help contracted tendons. Icing the base of the hand, where the carpal tunnel is located, for 15-20 minutes two or three times daily can reduce swelling and pain.

Your doctor may recommend taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, to relieve the pain and inflammation or you may even receive a corticosteroid shot in the wrist. Splints may be prescribed to support the forearm and wrist and prevent excessive motion which aggravates the condition. Nighttime splinting may be necessary as many people tend to sleep with their wrists flexed which places additional pressure on the median nerve. In some cases surgery to release the compressed nerve may be the best option to relieve pain and to prevent permanent damage to the hands.