Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the hand and arm. It occurs when the medial nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed or squeezed.
Some key points to know about Carpal Tunnel include:
Symptoms: Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. These symptoms often occur in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and ring finger. Some patients may also experience weakness in their hand, making it difficult to grip objects.
Causes and risk factors: Carpal tunnel syndrome can occur due to various reasons, including repetitive hand movements, forceful or awkward hand positions, wrist injuries, certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis), and hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy).
Diagnosis: To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, assess your symptoms, and conduct electrodiagnostic tests, such as nerve conduction studies and electromyography.
Treatment options: Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome can range from conservative approaches to surgical intervention. Initial treatments may include wrist splinting, pain medication, activity modifications, and physical therapy. If conservative methods don't provide relief, your doctor may suggest surgery to release the pressure on the carpal tunnel and alleviate symptoms.
Preventive measures and lifestyle changes: To reduce the risk or severity of carpal tunnel syndrome, some preventive measures include maintaining good posture, taking regular breaks during repetitive activities, using ergonomic tools or equipment, practising hand and wrist exercises, and keeping your wrist in a neutral position while typing or using keyboards.
It is important to note that this information provides a general overview of carpal tunnel syndrome. It's always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis, treatment options, and personalized advice based on your specific situation.
