Do You Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

What is it?

People complain of wrist pain on a normal basis. So what distinguishes the pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome or some other cause?

The warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome arise in the parts of the hand connected by the median nerve. In the beginning these signs come and go, often the pain gets worst when the hand has been used or at night.

These signs include:

• Deadness in your fingers or palm
• Pain in the hand which seems to get more intense at night and when arm dropped down to the floor, it seems to relieve some pain
• Feeling pins and needles usually around the index and middle fingers in the beginning, a lot of times relieved by shaking the arm
• Thumb movement seems weakened in some severe cases
• Some may also see a reduction in the muscles of their affected hand

Why does it happen?

The median nerve, which is responsible for both the sensation and movement of the hand passes underneath the carpal ligament, gets compressed resulting in irritation and inflammation of the nerve. This inflammation of the nerve presents as the classic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Who does it happen to?

It is mostly seen that carpal tunnel syndrome arises in individuals who are in their 40s or 50s and women are at a higher risk of getting this than men, about two to three times more likely. Individuals who on a daily basis use their wrists a lot are a higher risk of getting carpal tunnel, which often times is mistaken for repetitive strain injury. It can also be something that is carried in one genes. Some individuals maybe more prone than others to get this for example if you are overweight, diabetic, are pregnant, thyroid problem or have arthritis.

Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If the carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed at an early stage than one may be cured with the help of nonsurgical methods.

Some of them are:

• Corticosteroids. One might be injected with corticosteroid to the carpal tunnel to relieve the pain.
• Wrist splinting. This is more helpful for individuals whose symptoms get worst at night. By wearing a splint that holds your wrist still while you sleep helps relieve the tingling and numbness of the hand.
• For short term and temporary relief nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) might help ease the pain from carpal tunnel syndrome.

Another effective way of treating Carpal tunnel is physiotherapy. Here are some of the very effective methods:

• Dry needling
• Ice or heat treatment
• Bracing or splinting
• Soft tissue massage
• Correcting technique
• Advanced exercises to increase flexibility and strength
• Joint mobilization

Let Us Help You

If you suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and require further help, HealthMax Physiotherapy is here for you. For assistance, you can contact us online or communicate by phone at (416) 431-4000.