Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive disorder affecting the hand and wrist that results from compression of the median nerve. As a result, less blood and nutrients flow to the nerve, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the fingers and thumb. While anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, it is especially common in those performing assembly line work -- manufacturing; sewing; finishing; cleaning; and meat, poultry, or fish packing. In fact, the condition is three times more common among assemblers than among data-entry personnel.