11 April 2022
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms and Treatments
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, a federal agency, has outlined four common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. While the median nerve is not the primary cause, it can be a contributing factor. The increased pressure on the tendons and median nerve can be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome. Listed below are the symptoms and treatment options for this painful condition. However, you should not dismiss your symptoms without first consulting a doctor.
Symptoms
People who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome may notice numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers, especially when they bend their wrists. Some of the symptoms are so severe that they may even keep them from sleeping. Some of the early symptoms can be relieved by shaking your hand or simply by avoiding repetitive motions. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause numbness in the thumb and the first few fingers, making it difficult to grip small objects.
The carpal tunnel is lined with a ligament, which is a strong tissue that holds the hand bones together. Inside the carpal tunnel is the median nerve, which provides feeling to most fingers and adds strength to the base of the thumb. In addition to the median nerve, the carpal tunnel also contains tendons, which connect muscles in the forearm to bones in the hand. This ligament is surrounded by tendons, which are what allow the fingers to bend.
Diagnosis
A doctor may suspect CTS when he or she notices the symptoms of pain and numbness in the fingers or hand. The pain is often accompanied by swelling and thickening of the tendons. In more severe cases, the carpal tunnel may become progressively narrowed due to compression of the median nerve. In severe cases, the affected nerve may result in weakness in the thumb, wrist, forearm, or arm. CTS is one of the many entrapment neuropathies, which are the result of compression of peripheral nerves.
Diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome requires a thorough history and clinical examinations. X-rays and sonograms are used to rule out a more severe condition or another cause of the symptoms. The Tinel sign, Phalen sign, and median nerve compression test are clinical tests that can confirm the diagnosis. Electrodiagnostic tests may also confirm the diagnosis. This condition should be treated as soon as possible to minimize the risk of permanent nerve damage.
Treatment
There are several methods of Carpal Tunnel syndrome treatment. A brace for the wrist or hand can reduce the pressure on the median nerve. Other treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, exercise, stretching, and use of a Graston instrument. Treatments for this condition also include vitamin and mineral supplements and temporary rest. Treatments may also include surgery, if the symptoms are severe. You should consult your doctor before attempting any of these methods.
Although surgery is the usual method for treating CTS, nonsurgical interventions may provide relief for some people. Physical therapy, corticosteroids, and alternative therapies are common nonsurgical treatments for the condition. However, these interventions may only provide temporary relief. Further, a surgical decompression is necessary for those with more serious symptoms. Patients may also benefit from chiropractic treatment. The goal of the treatment is to restore normal function in the hands.
Prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, you must practice good posture. The best way to do this is to keep your hand in a neutral position and shoulders rolled forward and squared while you’re sitting or standing. The next best posture is to avoid hunching your shoulders, as this position adds to the strain on your wrists and arms. In addition, you should avoid sleeping on your hands. This can cause the condition, so avoid it.
Besides proper posture, you must also avoid doing repetitive tasks. Try using a wrist splint, which helps keep your wrist in a neutral position. This helps to reduce stress on your wrist and help avoid the condition. Avoid doing repetitive tasks, such as writing, until you find the right position. Alternate your hand positions and do regular stretching exercises. Changing your workstation or the position you’re in is another way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.