What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is essentially compression of the median nerve in the wrist.  There is a narrow space in the wrist (Carpal Tunnel) where the median nerve and nine tendons pass from the forearm to bones in the hand. The median nerve provides sensation (ability to feel) to your long finger, index finger, thumb and part of the ring finger. Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when swelling in this tunnel compresses the median nerve which can lead to numbness, weakness, and tingling on the side of your hand near the thumb.  It can occur in one or both of your hands. It is one of the most common problems affecting the hands

 

Who is most like to get carpal tunnel syndrome?

People employed in these jobs may be at higher risk of developing this syndrome as it involves repetitive finger use, especially those associated with high force, long-term use, extreme wrist motions, and vibration.

  • manufacturing
  • assembly line work
  • keyboarding occupations
  • construction work.

Other things that contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Heredity (smaller carpal tunnels can run in families).
  • High salt intake
  • Hand or wrist deformity.
  • Arthritic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis
  • Thyroid gland hormone imbalance (hypothyroidism)
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy
  • Wrist fracture & dislocation
  • A mass (tumor) in the carpal tunnel.
  • Alcoholism
  • Older age

 

Causes

  • Diabetes
  • Joint dislocations
  • Thyroid condition
  • Fluid build-up during a pregnancy or menopause
  • Swelling of the lining of the flexor tendons, called tenosynovitis
  • High blood pressure
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Fractures

 

Signs and symptoms

  • Burning & pain that travels up your arm
  • Numbness in the hand
  • Tingling in the fingers (especially the thumb, index, and middle finger)
  • Weak grip
  • Occasional clumsiness
  • Tendency to drop things
  • Wrist pain at night that interferes with sleep

In some of the bad cases, sensation and strength may be permanently lost.

 
Physical Therapy Treatment

Treating your carpal tunnel syndrome early with a physical therapy and lifestyle changes can lead to significant long-term improvement, and eliminate symptoms. SOS Physio’s physical therapists are medical professionals who can reduce your pain and help you regain strength and mobility. Physical therapy can help you meet your goals of pain relief and better hand movements. There are many physical therapy treatments such as Manual therapy & Active Release Techniques (ART) are found to be very effective in treating this type of disorder.
For more information- Contact your local SOS PHYSIO clinic

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