Your Quick Guide to Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Our hands are one of the most exposed parts of our body, making them more susceptible to injury. The nerves and muscles in the hand are so small and intricate that it's easy to overlook any emerging symptoms. However, untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can become so severe that people resort to surgery.

This guide will discuss the symptoms and causes of carpal tunnel syndrome and the treatment which will eliminate all hand numbness.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

This condition occurs when the median nerve experiences excessive pressure. This nerve stretches from the forearm, moves through the wrist, and provides flexibility to the fingers. When it's pinched at the base of the wrist, the carpal tunnel closes up and puts more stress on the nerve. As a result, moving the fingers is more painful, and people experience numbness and a tingling sensation in their hands.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

A combination of several factors may cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Office employees and factory workers have a higher chance of suffering from carpal tunnel complications, as the nature of their work involves continuous hand movement. However, spending long periods using their fingers could irritate the wrist nerves.

It can also be hereditary. If there's a family history of hand problems, people are more likely to develop a narrower carpal tunnel.

Also, bone fractures and severe trauma to the hands can significantly impact wrist structure, leading to the compression of the median nerve.

Old age coupled with a physically demanding job is another important factor. The older we become, the weaker our bones and muscles become. This fact doesn't necessarily lead to any severe condition. But operating heavy machinery or handling huge items and packages demands more hand usage, overworking the ligaments and weakening the nerves.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms develop gradually, and as the condition progresses, their intensity increases. In the beginning, the hands grow numb during the night, and the fingers feel overly sensitive. The pain is worse for people who move their hands in their sleep. As they struggle to find a painless sleep position, the constant movement can wake them up and lead to a poor sleep schedule.

If the condition goes untreated, other symptoms develop, including difficulty holding small items, inability to control a steering wheel, and overall hand weakness.

Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment

Non-invasive treatment involves wearing a wrist splint to eliminate excessive stress and movement during the night. The anti-inflammatory medication also helps with pain management. Medical professionals recommend rest, giving the wrist time to heal without slowing the progress. If the pain becomes unbearable, the person may need surgery. The procedure opens up the carpal tunnel and provides more space for the median nerve.

Physical therapy and regular checkups ensure a swift recovery. Lifestyle changes such as taking more frequent work breaks to shake your hands, holding the wrists in a straighter position, and limiting forceful movements also keep the median nerve in good condition.

Don't hesitate to reach out to a professional

You should not take carpal tunnel syndrome lightly. If you ignore the symptoms, they can lower your quality of life, and fixing this issue is a long and excruciating process.

Contact a qualified healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and detailed treatment plan. They'll not only provide relief but suggest preventive measures that will keep your entire body healthy for years to come.

Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.