CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Carpal tunnel syndrome which is three times more common in women occurs when the median nerve which runs from the forearm into the hand becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand which houses the median nerve and tendons. Sometimes thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and causes the median nerve to be compressed.

THE MEDIAN NERVE CONTROLS;

1.     Sensations to the palm side of the thumb and fingers excluding the little finger.

2.     Impulses to some small muscles in the hand that allow the fingers and thumb to move.

CAUSES OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME;

1.     Diabetes.

2.     Fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause.

3.     Hypothyroidism.

4.     Injury to the wrist that causes swelling.

5.     Overactivity of the pituitary gland.

6.     Repeated use of vibrating hand tools.

7.     Rheumatoid arthritis.

SYMPTOMS OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME;

1.     Decreased grip strength.

2.     Fingers feel useless and swollen although no swelling is apparent.

3.     Frequent burning, itching and tingling in the hand and fingers.

4.     Numbness in the hand and wrist.

5.     Pain in the hand and wrist with some radiation up the forearm.

6.     Some people are unable to tell between hot and cold by touch.

7.     Symptoms often first appear in one or both hands during the night.

8.     The need to “shake out” the hand or wrist.

9.     Weakness in the hand and wrist.

TREATMENT OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

1.     Underlying causes such as diabetes or arthritis should be treated first.

2.     Rest the affected hand and wrist for at least 2 weeks.

3.     Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.