Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve. The
carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the
palm side of the hand. When the median nerve is compressed, symptoms can
include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm.
SYMPTOMS
- Tingling or numbness. Usually, the thumb and index, middle, or ring
fingers are affected, but not the little finger. Sensation like an electric
shock in these fingers may occur.
- Weakness. Weakness in the hand and dropping objects.
RISK FACTORS
- Anatomic factors. A wrist fracture or dislocation, or arthritis
that deforms the small bones in the wrist.
- Sex. More common in women
- Nerve-damaging conditions.
- Inflammatory conditions.
- Medications.
- Obesity.
- Body fluid changes.
- Workplace factors. Several studies have evaluated there is an
association between computer use and carpal tunnel syndrome.
MANAGEMENT
- Sleeping with wrists held straight.
- Keeping wrists straight when using tools.
- Avoid flexing and extending wrists repeatedly.
- Decreasing repetitive/strong grasping with the wrist in a flexed
position.
- Taking frequent rest breaks from repetitive activities.
- Performing conditioning and stretching exercises before and after activities.
- Monitoring and properly treating medical conditions linked to carpal
tunnel syndrome.
