Carpal Tunnel Syndrome describes a condition in which the median nerve, a nerve located in the wrist area, is under pressure. The median nerve is an important nerve that provides sensation and muscle control to the thumb, index finger, middle finger and ring finger on the inside of the hand. This nerve travels within a narrow space in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by narrowing of this tunnel or compression of the median nerve. As a result of this compression, symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling and loss of strength occur in the hand. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can usually occur for the following reasons:
Wrist Injuries: Wrist injuries or fractures can put pressure on the structures in the carpal tunnel.
Overuse: Overuse of the hand and wrist area can lead to narrowing of the carpal tunnel and compression of the median nerve.
Inflammation: Inflammation in the wrist area can put pressure on the nerves within the tunnel.
Chronic Diseases: Chronic health problems such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is diagnosed through clinical examination and sometimes tests such as electromyography (EMG). Treatment options may include:
Use of wrist splint or splint: These devices, which can be used day and night, can help relieve symptoms by maintaining the correct position of the wrist and hand.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Can help strengthen wrist and hand muscles.
Medication injections: Steroid injections can reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical intervention: In cases where other treatment methods do not work or the syndrome is severe, carpal tunnel syndrome surgery may be required. This surgery aims to widen the carpal tunnel or relieve compression of the median nerve.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or have been diagnosed, it is important to contact a healthcare professional and consider appropriate treatment options.