Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

It is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This nerve controls sensations in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger, as well as the muscles at the base of the thumb and compression leads to tingling sensation, thenar eminence muscles wasting and pain along the distal distribution of the nerve. The carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms and causes along with carpal tunnel syndrome test and treatment have been explained in detail below.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms and causes:

Carpal tunnel syndrome Symptoms:

• Tingling, numbness, or burning sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
• Weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
• Pain that may extend from the wrist up the arm or into the hand.
• Symptoms often worsen at night.

Causes:

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements (e.g., typing, assembly line work).
• Wrist injuries or fractures.
• Medical conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, arthritis.
• Fluid retention: Common during pregnancy or menopause.
• Genetic predisposition: Narrow carpal tunnel structure.

Risk Factors:

• Occupations involving repetitive hand use.
• Prolonged computer use.
• Vibrating tool usage.
• Conditions like obesity and rheumatoid arthritis.

Carpal tunnel syndrome test and Diagnosis:

• Physical examination (e.g., Tinel’s test, Phalen’s maneuver).
• Nerve conduction studies or EMG to measure electrical activity.
• Ultrasound or MRI in some cases.

Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment:

The following remedial measures can relieve the symptoms.

• Lifestyle changes: Rest, ergonomic adjustments, wrist splints.
• Medications: NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for pain relief.
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Surgery (Carpal Tunnel Release) in severe cases to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Prevention:

• Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
• Use ergonomic tools and proper posture.
• Perform wrist and hand stretching exercises regularly.