Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition that affects the wrist, fingers and – in some instances – the forearm. The carpal canal or tunnel is a very small space in the wrist that connects the palm and the forearm. Several tendons and the median nerve pass through the carpal canal. The median nerve is one of the 5 main nerves that run from the shoulder to the fingers. If the canal swells or deteriorates, it can place pressure on the tendons and median nerve resulting in tingling, significant discomfort, and/or pain. Since the median nerve controls various finger and hand movement, much of that discomfort manifests in both the hand and wrist, though in some cases the symptoms may extend in the forearm.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

• Aging and arthritis
• Repetitive movement, especially if it involves bending the wrist downward
• Wrist injuries
• Bone spurs
• Pregnancy
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking

Women have a higher proclivity to develop this syndrome as their carpal tunnels are significantly smaller than males.

What are the primary symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

• Tingling
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Pain in the fingers, hand, and/or forearm

Symptoms most frequently manifest in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger. Symptoms never manifest in the “pinkie,” so if you experience pain in all fingers except the pinkie, it is likely that you are experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms are often most prevalent at night and you may be able to relief pain temporarily by shaking the hand vigorously.

What are the treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome?

• If possible, limit or cease activities that trigger symptoms and aggravate the condition. At the very least, rest the wrist occasionally when performing said activities.
• Wear a carpal tunnel brace or wrist support when at the computer or participating in activities that involve repetitive wrist movement.
• Ice the wrist for 10 minutes 1 or 2 times an hour.
• Take anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling.
• Wear a carpal tunnel wrist splint at night.

The sooner you start treating the syndrome, the more likely you will prevent permanent nerve damage, so as soon as you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, you should begin strategizing a treatment plan. In some instances the pain is just too intense and persistent, making surgery the best option. Surgery can increase the circumference of the carpal tunnel, thus reducing pressure on the nerve.

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Could I have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway through which the median nerve and tendons pass from the forearm to the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve, which is responsible for sensation and some movement in the thumb and closest three fingers, becomes constricted. Several factors can cause the carpal tunnel to narrow, placing pressure on the median nerve and potentially causing some of the characteristic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome – pain, tingling, weakness and numbness of the hands and fingers (except for the pinky).

The cause of carpal tunnel syndrome in an individual cannot always be determined. The condition is far more prominent in women, which could be due to their generally smaller carpal tunnels. Some people simply inherit the condition, while in other cases carpal tunnel syndrome can be the result of other problems such as an injury, rheumatoid arthritis or hypothyroidism.

Often the treatment regimen advised by doctors is aimed at management of the symptoms, though surgery to release some of the pressure on the carpal tunnel is also an option. Rest and immobilization of the affected wrist(s) are usually recommended to alleviate the symptoms. Often people with the condition get relief by wearing a wrist brace at night or during certain activities to keep the wrist in a neutral position. In some situations, people with the condition may benefit from over the counter medications such as anti-inflammatories or diuretics as advised by a doctor. If another disease or condition is determined to be the root of the carpal tunnel syndrome, the underlying problem will likely be treated. For symptoms that are long lasting and lifestyle prohibitive, surgery may be recommended to permanently relieve the pressure on the median nerve. The surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is very common and relatively non-invasive.

Experiencing some of the described symptoms does not necessarily indicate that you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Something other than carpal tunnel syndrome could be causing the symptoms, or a treatable underlying problem could be contributing to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Proper diagnosis is critical, and early diagnosis is ideal. A doctor can perform tests to determine whether a patient needs to be treated for carpal tunnel syndrome. Consulting with a medical professional is advisable for anyone who is experiencing any of these symptoms.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About MMAR Medical Group: a supplier of orthopedic medical products including a wide selection of braces and supports. To find a quality hinged knee brace, wrist brace, lumbar brace or other quality brace, please visit www.mmarmedical.com.