Carpal tunnel syndrome can be incredibly painful. A person suffering from it likely experiences tingling, numbness, or weakness in their arm or hand. These symptoms are not just inconvenient; they can affect your daily life.
So, what exactly is carpal tunnel syndrome, and why does it develop? In this article, we will explore this condition, its causes, and how to manage it effectively.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome — What Is It?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical problem that can make your hand and wrist feel uncomfortable and painful. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist.
The carpal tunnel is a small, tight space in the wrist that is enclosed by bones and ligaments. This tunnel protects the median nerve and the tendons that bend the fingers. When swelling and inflammation develop, they put pressure on the median nerve, causing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The symptoms usually start gradually. You might feel numbness or tingling in your fingers, particularly the thumb, index, and middle. The sensation can extend up the arm. You might also feel weakness in the hand and have difficulty with tasks like holding a steering wheel or reading a book.
It is vital to seek treatment immediately. Ignoring the condition may make it worse, causing permanent nerve damage and weakness.
The Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Understanding what causes carpal tunnel syndrome is crucial for prevention and management.
1. Repetitive Hand Movements
One of the main reasons people get carpal tunnel syndrome is from doing the same hand movements over and over again. Repetition causes swelling, which puts pressure on the median nerve.
Jobs that involve repetitive hand or wrist movements, like typing, working on an assembly line, or playing musical instruments, can increase your risk of developing this condition.
2. Wrist Injuries
Wrist injuries such as fractures or sprains can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. If you injure your wrist, it can cause swelling or deformities in the carpal tunnel, which can put pressure on the median nerve.
Often, people don’t realize their wrist injury can result in this until they experience numbness or tingling.
3. Inflammatory Conditions
Certain inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions cause inflammation, which can lead to swelling in the carpal tunnel. Inflammation and the subsequent swelling presses on the median nerve, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Other Health Conditions
Several health conditions can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and obesity.
Each of these conditions can lead to increased swelling or changes in the body’s balance of hormones or fluids. This can significantly affect the carpal tunnel.
5. Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of significant bodily changes, and fluid retention is common. The added fluid can lead to swelling in the carpal tunnel.
Pregnant women often experience symptoms in the third trimester, but they usually resolve after childbirth.
6. Heredity
Sometimes, carpal tunnel syndrome runs in families. This can be due to an inherited anatomical structure of the wrist.
Some people naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel, which makes them more susceptible to developing symptoms.
7. Incorrect Hand and Wrist Positioning
Incorrect hand and wrist positioning, particularly during sleep, can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Sleeping with your wrists bent can put pressure on the median nerve. It is important to maintain a neutral wrist position to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
8. Occupational Hazards
Certain occupations carry a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include jobs that involve repetitive hand movements, forceful gripping, or vibrating machinery.
People in these jobs should rest at regular times to mitigate the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome. They should also perform wrist exercises to prevent symptoms.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatments
Here are some treatment options to help manage and alleviate symptoms:
Wrist Splints
Orthopedic doctors typically recommend non-surgical treatments first. Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can help keep your wrist in a neutral position. Neutral and natural positions reduce pressure on the nerve.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
You will not always need prescription medication to address carpal tunnel syndrome. Over-the-counter medications can also help, particularly anti-inflammatories.
Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections can decrease swelling and relieve pressure on the median nerve. However, they only offer temporary relief and can only be administered a few times.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
When non-surgical treatments do not work, surgery may be an option.
This procedure involves cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve to relieve symptoms. It can be done through open surgery or using endoscopic techniques, which are less invasive.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Boynton Beach, FL
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition with several causes. Repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, inflammatory conditions, and other health factors all play a role. Learning more about the condition and what causes carpal tunnel syndrome can help you manage and prevent it. If you experience symptoms, it is crucial to seek professional advice.
Trust Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches to guide you through the process. Call (561) 733-5888, Ext. 9 to schedule a consultation today, and visit the top hand and wrist specialist near you. Your hands deserve the best care, so take action now to ensure their health and functionality.
Our trusted orthopedic doctors look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4005-carpal-tunnel-syndrome
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355608
