It seems that everywhere you look these days, people are scrolling, tapping, and swiping on their smartphones. What they may not realize is that all their texting and other phone play may be the reason why some are periodically experiencing hand strain, if not full-blown carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
A number of studies have established a link between extended use of smartphones – and of other handheld devices – and a greater likelihood of developing painful hand and wrist conditions.
Because carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common and debilitating hand and wrist conditions that can be aggravated by phone use, let’s talk about what it is and what can be done to alleviate the condition.
What Is the Carpal Tunnel?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow pathway of bones, ligaments, and tendons that is located at the base of your hand. It contains tendons that enable you to bend your fingers, and it also contains the median nerve, which provides feeling for some of your fingers.
CTS can develop over time if you apply repeated pressure to the point where the median nerve passes into your hand and meets your wrist. The result of this repetitive pressure is often pain, numbness, finger tingling, and weakened grip strength.
How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?
To diagnose CTS, your doctor will conduct a medical examination, review your medical history, and ask you about your hand- and wrist-related activities and symptoms. Your doctor will also perform a thorough hand and wrist examination, and will check your sensation and level of discomfort.
Specifically, the doctor may ask you to perform a few simple tests to gauge the pressure on your median nerve. One of these tests is called the Phalen’s Test, in which you firmly flex your wrists for 60 seconds. If you feel numbness, tingling, or weakness, the test is positive for CTS.
With the Tinel’s Sign, the doctor will tap on the median nerve at the wrist. Again, if you feel numbness or tingling, the test is positive. Also, the doctor may order lab tests or take an X-ray to identify a fracture or arthritis.
Treating CTS
If you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, it may take more than just cutting down on your cellphone texting to relieve the symptoms. Your doctor may recommend wearing a splint at night or during activities that aggravate your symptoms, thereby positioning your wrist properly and providing support.
In addition, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may be suggested or prescribed to help reduce your pain and swelling. In severe cases of CTS, corticosteroid injections (an anti-inflammatory medication) may be necessary to provide symptom relief.
Surgery for Hand Strain
If these nonsurgical options fail to work, or if your condition worsens, surgery may be recommended – but only as a last resort. There are a few types of outpatient procedures that remove pressure on the median nerve, including the following:
- Open release, a short (15-minute) procedure in which the surgeon makes an incision in the traverse carpal ligament in order to open the tunnel and make it larger, thus relieving pressure on the median nerve.
- Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release, in which an endoscope (a small device with a light and a lens that allows the surgeon to view the carpal tunnel) is used in conjunction with a camera or video system, while the surgeon opens the carpal tunnel and makes it larger in order to take pressure off the median nerve.
Hand Surgeons in Maryland
If you believe you may be experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome or other hand-related condition, the hand doctors at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder can help reduce or eliminate your pain and discomfort.
Call us today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online for a consultation at any of our convenient locations across Maryland.
