Most people are familiar with carpal tunnel syndrome as an overuse injury that occurs from not keeping the hands and wrists properly aligned or positioned when doing repetitive tasks like typing or sewing. That pain or tingling in your hands and fingers can make even the slightest movement painful. But carpal tunnel syndrome is more than just “a typing disease.” So, what exactly is it and how is it treated?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is considered a repetitive strain injury, which occurs when performing repeated tasks, especially those involving vibration, exertion, mechanical compression, and/or sustained/awkward positions.
Symptoms
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects your wrist and hand. It occurs when the median nerve – the one that extends from the center of your hand up your forearm – becomes irritated. This is the result of the tendons next to the nerve becoming inflamed and pressing on the nerve. Symptoms of this nerve impingement may be felt anywhere along the length of the nerve, from the fingers to the forearm.
Those who have carpal tunnel syndrome may complain of numbness, burning, or tingling sensations in their hands, fingers, wrists, or forearms. Losing grip of items such as coffee cups or pencils may occur, and there may be difficulty manipulating handheld objects. Those who suffer from carpal tunnel report the pain is worse later in the day and that performing certain repetitive movements can aggravate symptoms. Cold temperatures also may acerbate symptoms.
Risk Factors
While an estimated 10 percent of the population is affected by carpal tunnel syndrome, it most often occurs in females between the ages of 30 and 60. Those who have rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, or joint dislocations are also at higher risk, as are diabetics and those with hypothyroidism. Pregnant women also are more at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome due to fluid retention and hormonal changes, as are menopausal women or those suffering from premenstrual syndrome.
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you believe you have carpal tunnel syndrome or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, a visit to your doctor can either confirm or rule out your suspicions. Your doctor will first review your medical history, asking specific questions about your activities that may be contributing to your symptoms. He will then perform a thorough hand and wrist exam, which will include a series of practical tests, including bending, tapping, and flexing to determine if there is pressure on the nerve. If your doctor believes you may have nerve damage, he will likely order lab tests and possibly an X-ray to rule out a fracture or arthritis. He may also order an electromyography (EMG) test or nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test to determine the efficiency of nerve function.
If you’re wondering if you have carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, this might help: if the symptoms you’re feeling are in the thumb or first two fingers, hand, and forearm – but not elsewhere – you may have carpel tunnel syndrome. Chronic pain in numerous joints in your body is indicative of arthritis.
Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Most doctors will work to treat carpal tunnel syndrome with noninvasive measures such as splints or other immobility aids to provide your wrists support and ensure proper alignment.
He may also recommend taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling, as well as simple exercises to strengthen the area.
Your doctor may decide to administer a corticosteroid injection to relieve pain. Many patients undergo dry needling or acupuncture to provide nonsurgical relief. Some work with occupational health care providers to ensure their work and living spaces are ergonomic and efficient.
In severe cases, your doctor may discuss surgical options to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can detract from your work and your quality of life. So, when you are seeking treatment, consider consulting a medical professional whose expertise is specialized to the area from the hand to the shoulder. The board-certified hand surgeons and specialists at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder are locationed conveniently throughout Maryland and are ready to help you. Call our main office today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online at one of our locations in the Greater Chesapeake area.
