Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Know the Symptoms, Causes, and What You Can Do About It

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the wrist and hand, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. It occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve, which controls feeling and movement in parts of the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome can make everyday activities like typing, driving, and even holding a phone uncomfortable. Let’s dive into what causes this condition, how it’s diagnosed, the treatment options available, and what to expect if you or someone you know has carpal tunnel syndrome.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that happens when the median nerve, a nerve in your wrist, gets squeezed or compressed. The median nerve runs from the forearm through a narrow space in the wrist called the carpal tunnel and into the hand. This nerve is responsible for controlling sensations in the thumb, index, middle fingers, and part of the ring finger, as well as some of the muscles at the base of the thumb. When there’s pressure on the median nerve, it can cause symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling in these parts of the hand.

The carpal tunnel itself is a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of bones and a strong band of tissue called the transverse carpal ligament. Inside the carpal tunnel are the median nerve and nine tendons that help bend the fingers. If there’s any swelling or increased pressure in this area, the median nerve can become compressed, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Several factors can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. Understanding these causes can help in preventing or managing the condition. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Repetitive Hand and Wrist Movements

One of the most well-known causes of carpal tunnel syndrome is repetitive use of the hands and wrists. Activities that involve bending the wrist or gripping objects tightly, like typing, using tools, or even playing musical instruments, can put strain on the median nerve. Over time, this repeated movement can lead to inflammation and swelling in the wrist, which can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel.

2. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include:

• Diabetes: Diabetes can damage nerves, making the median nerve more vulnerable.
• Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels can cause fluid buildup in the body, which may lead to swelling in the carpal tunnel.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to swelling in joints and tissues, including the wrist, which may put pressure on the median nerve.

3. Injury or Trauma to the Wrist

Any injury to the wrist, like a fracture or dislocation, can change the shape or size of the carpal tunnel, leading to increased pressure on the median nerve. Even after the injury has healed, scar tissue might contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.

4. Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fluid retention, which may increase pressure within the carpal tunnel. For many women, symptoms improve after childbirth, but for some, carpal tunnel syndrome may persist.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome often start gradually and can vary in severity. Here are some of the most common symptoms to look out for:

1. Numbness and Tingling: Many people with carpal tunnel syndrome feel numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. This sensation often occurs at night and may even wake people from sleep.
2. Pain in the Wrist and Hand: Pain can range from mild to severe and may spread up the arm. Bending the wrist can make the pain worse, and some people experience a burning or aching sensation in the hand and wrist.
3. Weakness and Difficulty with Grip: Over time, carpal tunnel syndrome can weaken the muscles at the base of the thumb, making it harder to grip objects, button shirts, or hold onto small items.
4. Symptoms that Worsen at Night: Nighttime symptoms are common because many people bend their wrists while sleeping, which can increase pressure on the median nerve. Wearing a splint at night may help relieve these symptoms.

Symptoms can vary in intensity, and while some people may experience only mild discomfort, others may have severe pain that affects their daily activities. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause permanent nerve and muscle damage.

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you suspect you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis. A healthcare provider can diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome through several methods, including:

1. Physical Exam

During a physical exam, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They might also perform specific tests, such as:

• Tinel’s Sign: The doctor taps on the median nerve at the wrist to see if it causes tingling in the fingers, which can suggest carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Phalen’s Test: You’ll be asked to bend your wrists with your hands pressed together (like a prayer position but with the back of the hands together). If this position causes tingling or numbness, it may indicate carpal tunnel syndrome.

2. Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (EMG)

If the doctor suspects carpal tunnel syndrome, they may order nerve conduction studies or EMG tests. These tests measure how well the median nerve is working and help rule out other conditions that could be causing symptoms.

3. Ultrasound or MRI

Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI are less common but can be used to look at the structure of the carpal tunnel and the median nerve. This can help identify any structural issues or rule out other possible causes of wrist pain.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome depends on how severe the symptoms are. Here are some common treatment options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

1. Wrist Splints: A wrist splint keeps the wrist in a neutral position, which can reduce pressure on the median nerve, especially when worn at night.
2. Lifestyle Modifications: Adjusting activities that may worsen symptoms, such as reducing typing time, taking frequent breaks, and using ergonomic tools, can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.
3. Physical Therapy and Exercises: Certain stretches and exercises can improve flexibility and strength in the hand and wrist, potentially relieving symptoms. A physical therapist may guide you through specific exercises designed to ease pressure on the median nerve.
4. Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel may help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. However, these injections are generally a temporary solution and are often used when other treatments haven’t provided relief.

Surgical Treatments

If symptoms are severe or don’t improve with non-surgical treatments, carpal tunnel release surgery may be an option. The goal of this surgery is to reduce pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, which forms part of the carpal tunnel. This surgery can be done in two main ways:

1. Open Carpal Tunnel Release: In this traditional method, a surgeon makes an incision in the wrist to access and cut the transverse carpal ligament, enlarging the carpal tunnel space.
2. Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release: This is a minimally invasive approach where the surgeon makes a small incision and uses a tiny camera (endoscope) to guide the procedure. Endoscopic surgery usually has a faster recovery time and leaves smaller scars.

After surgery, most people experience significant relief from symptoms, although recovery can vary. Physical therapy is often recommended to help restore strength and flexibility to the hand and wrist after surgery.

Prognosis and Prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people with carpal tunnel syndrome can manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Non-surgical treatments often provide relief for those with mild to moderate symptoms. For those who need surgery, carpal tunnel release has a high success rate, and most people regain full hand and wrist function. However, recovery may take several weeks to months, depending on the individual.

While carpal tunnel syndrome can’t always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Practice Good Ergonomics: Make sure your workstation is set up correctly to reduce strain on your wrists. Use a keyboard and mouse that keep your wrists in a neutral position, and try not to bend your wrists while typing.
2. Take Frequent Breaks: If you’re doing a repetitive task, take short breaks to stretch your wrists and hands. This can reduce stress on the median nerve.
3. Stretch and Strengthen Your Hands and Wrists: Exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles in the hand and wrist can improve flexibility and resilience against carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Avoid Excessive Wrist Bending: Keeping your wrist in a neutral position (not too bent or extended) can help prevent extra pressure on the median nerve.

Final Thoughts

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be a painful and frustrating condition, especially for people who rely heavily on their hands and wrists for work or hobbies. However, by understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing when to seek treatment, individuals can take control of the condition and improve their quality of life. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, exercises, or surgery, there are effective ways to manage carpal tunnel syndrome and get relief from its symptoms.

Don’t let carpal tunnel syndrome hold you back! Take control of your health today—explore effective treatments and strategies to regain comfort and mobility. GET IN TOUCH TODAY to start your journey to relief!