CarpalTunnelSyndrome
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding carpal tunnel syndrome.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
It is a condition where pressure is applied to the median nerve in the wrist as it passes through the carpal tunnel (a narrow passage in the wrist surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side), causing tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands and fingers.
- What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Weakness anddifficulty ingripping objects.
- Pain or numbness in one or both hands.
- A sensation of “pins and needles” in the fingers, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
A sensation of swelling and puffiness in the fingers.
What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may occur due to pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. Various reasons and factors can cause this pressure, such as:
- Repetitive hand use: Repeatingthe same hand andwrist movements or activitiesover a long periodcan cause swelling inthe wrist tendons..
- Suffering from certain jointor bone disorders (suchas arthritis, osteoporosis,or rheumatoid arthritis).).
- Hormonal or metabolic changes (such as menopause, pregnancy, or thyroid dysfunction).
- Changes in blood sugar levels.
- Wrist injuries (such as sprains, dislocations, fractures, or swelling and inflammation).
- Genetics and family history: Your chances of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome increase if a family member has it..
Obesity.
What are the diagnostic methods?:
- The doctor takes a medical history and conducts a physical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, including:
- Testing the strength of fingers and hand muscles.
- X-rays.
- Ultrasound imaging.
- Electromyography.
Nerve conduction study.
What are the treatment methods for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Treatment involves several procedures, as needed, and may include:
- Wrist splinting: Helps prevent wrist movement to alleviate nerve pressure within the tunnel.
- Stopping or reducing activities that exacerbate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms, such as frequent wrist bending or strong gripping.
- Pain relievers: Can help alleviate carpal tunnel pain in the short term.
- Anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections: Thesemedications reduce swelling, which eases symptoms.
Surgery: Performed to relieve nerve pressure by numbing the hand (local anesthetic) and making a small incision in the wrist to cut the carpal tunnel so it no longer compresses the nerve post-surgery. The surgery takes 20 minutes and does not require hospital admission.
What are the preventive measures for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- There are no guaranteed prevention methods for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but there are some tips that may help prevent it:
- Take breaks during work.
- Work in wrist-comfortable positions.
Wearing gloves may help keep hands warm and flexible.
What are the complicationsof Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Complications from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are rare and include:
- Permanent damage leading to persistent weakness and disability in the wrist.
- Chronic pain.
Atrophy and weakness in the thumb muscles reduce job efficiency.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you have persistent and recurring symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affecting your daily activities and sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are some work habits (like frequent computeruse) common causes of the syndrome?
