Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into your hand, is compressed at the wrist. This nerve travels through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway made of bones and ligaments. Swelling or pressure in this tunnel can pinch the nerve, leading to discomfort.
It often develops gradually and worsens over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term nerve damage and loss of hand function.
Recognizing the Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Being aware of the signs of carpal tunnel syndrome is essential for early intervention. Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index finger, and middle finger
- Weakness in the hand, especially when gripping objects
- Sharp or shooting pain that may travel up the arm
- A sensation that your fingers are swollen, even if they are not
- Wrist pain that worsens at night or after repetitive hand movements
If you are experiencing any of these signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, schedule a consultation with a medical professional to confirm the diagnosis.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Several factors can increase your chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Repetitive Hand Motions: Jobs or activities that involve continuous wrist movements, like typing or working on an assembly line.
- Wrist Anatomy: Smaller carpal tunnels or medical conditions like arthritis can make you more susceptible.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis can heighten your risk.
- Pregnancy: Fluid retention during pregnancy can lead to temporary carpal tunnel syndrome in some women.
Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive steps, such as limiting repetitive wrist motions and maintaining a neutral wrist position during activities.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, a doctor may review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and conduct diagnostic tests like nerve conduction studies or ultrasound imaging to confirm the condition.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of your symptoms:
Non-Surgical Treatments
For managing mild or moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, the following treatments can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression:
Wrist Splints
Using a wrist brace, especially at night, helps keep the wrist in a neutral position. This reduces pressure on the median nerve, the main nerve affected in carpal tunnel syndrome, and can significantly ease pain and numbness.
Activity Modifications
Adjusting or limiting repetitive activities that strain the wrist, such as typing or using tools, can prevent irritation of the nerve and provide relief. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace may also help.
Medications
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, can reduce inflammation and ease pain in the wrist and hand. They can be particularly useful for temporary symptom relief.
Physical Therapy
Specific exercises, including wrist stretches and strengthening movements, can improve flexibility, reduce pressure on the median nerve, and enhance wrist function. Working with a physical therapist ensures proper technique to avoid further strain.
These treatments are often effective for early-stage carpal tunnel syndrome and can help delay or eliminate the need for more invasive procedures.
Surgical Intervention
When symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome become severe or non-surgical treatments fail, carpal tunnel surgery may be required to alleviate pain and restore function.
There are two primary types of carpal tunnel release surgery:
Open Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
In this traditional approach, a small incision is made in the palm of the hand to access and cut the transverse carpal ligament. This can help by relieving pressure on the median nerve.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
This minimally invasive procedure involves one or two small incisions. A tiny camera (endoscope) is used to guide the surgical tools, allowing the ligament to be cut with less disruption to surrounding tissues and a potentially quicker recovery.
Post-surgery recovery focuses on restoring hand and wrist function. Patients may experience temporary swelling, stiffness, and weakness when healing from carpal tunnel surgery. However, physical therapy or exercises can help regain strength and mobility.
Recovery times can vary, with most people resuming normal activities within 4-6 weeks for endoscopic surgery and slightly longer for open surgery.
How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially if your daily activities put stress on your wrists. Consider these strategies:
- Take frequent breaks when engaging in repetitive tasks.
- Use ergonomic tools and furniture that promote a neutral wrist position.
- Stretch your fingers, hands, and wrists regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity increases the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Being mindful of these preventive measures can significantly reduce your chances of developing symptoms.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Westminster, MD
Do not wait to address your carpal tunnel symptoms – visit us here at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. Our team of board-certified hand specialists provides expert diagnoses, tailored treatment plans, and compassionate care. Whether you need non-surgical carpal tunnel syndrome management or advanced surgical options, we can help restore your quality of life.
Book your appointment today by calling (410) 296-6232 or scheduling online using our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
Citation:
Exercises: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/globalassets/pdfs/2022-therapeutic-exercise-program-for-carpal-tunnel.pdf
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11384870/
