[Reyv]

I'm about to start Aikido. I've found what seems to be a great dojo and sensei, and watched a 2 hour session today.

Here's the problem: I'm uncomfortable with all the focus that's being placed on taking the attacker's palms to their extremities. Isn't there a risk of that degenerating into a chronic condition like, oh I dunno', say Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

This is quickly turning into a limiting belief for me, and I'm hoping I'm going to be able to free myself of it through knowledge.

To make this more generic, what is your track record of permanent and/or chronic injuries suffered as a result of martial arts? How long have you been practicing? Are there any practices in the martial arts which are known to cause irreparable long-term damage?

I'm really enthusiastic about Aikido, but I'm going to be plagued by fear if I don't straighten these things out first, and at least figure out the best prevention methods.