Carpal tunnel syndrome is a debilitating condition which can be aggravated by constant and repetitive work that involves the use of the hands and wrist. People who develop CTS usually acquire the condition in their workplace. The compression of the carpal tunnel results in the median nerve getting squeezed at the wrist and then starts to manifest as common signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Almost all patients with CTS have reported the same signs and symptoms particularly felt in the affected hand, wrist and forearm " these are...numbness, pain and weakness.
1. Numbness
The initial symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome is numbness of the hand and fingers usually felt at night which results in frequent sleep interruptions. Patients with CTS often have a misconception regarding the numbness of the hand and fingers; they continuously ignore the symptoms thinking that it is caused by poor blood circulation due to an awkward position of the hands and wrist during sleep. But as time pass by the symptoms become more recurrent and the frequency is increased. This is usually accompanied by an occasional tingling sensation.
2. Pain
The median nerve which passes through the carpal tunnel is surrounded by fibrous tissue and ligaments. When the space between the tissue and this nerve...the carpal tunnel... becomes compressed it places extreme pressure on the median nerve that results in pain of the affected wrist. Pain usually radiates from the wrist up to the forearms. In severe cases, pain may also be felt at the neck and the upper part of the shoulder. Intermittent pain is indicative of a worsening case of CTS. If left untreated this might lead to permanent nerve damage.
3. Weakness/Muscle Atrophy
In severe cases, weakness of the hand is indicative of muscle atrophy. Loss of strength at the base of the thumb is frequently noted. Most patients notice gradual decrease in muscle strength, as it progresses hand grip is also affected. They have a tendency to drop things and even simple task like holding a glass seems to be extremely difficult.
These are the most common signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. If by any chance you start manifesting the symptoms and it is becoming recurrent, you should immediately see a doctor. You will be instructed to take a series of tests in which prognosis will be based. The doctor will also ask for a thorough medical history to rule out any underlying causes.
Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will normally involve carpal tunnel exercises, activity restrictions and wrist splints. The application of an ice pack over the swollen area may help to reduce inflammation. Analgesics and NSAIDs may be prescribed if swelling persists. You will also be asked to refrain from doing activities which may exacerbate the present condition.
The complete rest of the affected hand and wrist might also help to cure carpal tunnel syndrome. Total immobilization of the hand is done by placing splints on the wrist to restrict movement of the hand and wrist. This would allow the swollen tissue around the median nerve to recover and reduce inflammation releasing the tension on the nerve. - 14130
1. Numbness
The initial symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome is numbness of the hand and fingers usually felt at night which results in frequent sleep interruptions. Patients with CTS often have a misconception regarding the numbness of the hand and fingers; they continuously ignore the symptoms thinking that it is caused by poor blood circulation due to an awkward position of the hands and wrist during sleep. But as time pass by the symptoms become more recurrent and the frequency is increased. This is usually accompanied by an occasional tingling sensation.
2. Pain
The median nerve which passes through the carpal tunnel is surrounded by fibrous tissue and ligaments. When the space between the tissue and this nerve...the carpal tunnel... becomes compressed it places extreme pressure on the median nerve that results in pain of the affected wrist. Pain usually radiates from the wrist up to the forearms. In severe cases, pain may also be felt at the neck and the upper part of the shoulder. Intermittent pain is indicative of a worsening case of CTS. If left untreated this might lead to permanent nerve damage.
3. Weakness/Muscle Atrophy
In severe cases, weakness of the hand is indicative of muscle atrophy. Loss of strength at the base of the thumb is frequently noted. Most patients notice gradual decrease in muscle strength, as it progresses hand grip is also affected. They have a tendency to drop things and even simple task like holding a glass seems to be extremely difficult.
These are the most common signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. If by any chance you start manifesting the symptoms and it is becoming recurrent, you should immediately see a doctor. You will be instructed to take a series of tests in which prognosis will be based. The doctor will also ask for a thorough medical history to rule out any underlying causes.
Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will normally involve carpal tunnel exercises, activity restrictions and wrist splints. The application of an ice pack over the swollen area may help to reduce inflammation. Analgesics and NSAIDs may be prescribed if swelling persists. You will also be asked to refrain from doing activities which may exacerbate the present condition.
The complete rest of the affected hand and wrist might also help to cure carpal tunnel syndrome. Total immobilization of the hand is done by placing splints on the wrist to restrict movement of the hand and wrist. This would allow the swollen tissue around the median nerve to recover and reduce inflammation releasing the tension on the nerve. - 14130
About the Author:
Miriam Dawson is a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome sufferer who has explored various methods of bringing relief to CTS sufferers.
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