Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel from the wrist. It can result in pain, numbness or paresthesia, weakness, and numbness in the hand and fingers.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Age: Over time, the structure of the carpal tunnel can stiffen and narrow, increasing pressure on the median nerve.
• Anatomy: Some people have a narrower-than-normal carpal tunnel, which increases the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Repetitive Injuries: Repetitive injuries to the hand and forearm, such as typing on a keyboard or playing tennis, can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Medications: Arthritis, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Pregnancy: Hormones and weight gain during pregnancy can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel and trigger carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Wrist fractures or injuries: Wrist fractures or injuries can alter the anatomy of the wrist and increase pressure on the median nerve.
• Work: People who perform repetitive tasks with their hands and forearms, such as typing, may be at higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and special tests. Some of the procedures used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Medical history: The doctor may ask about symptoms, medical history, and risk factors, such as occupational or repetitive injuries.
• Physical examination: The doctor may assess the sensation, strength, and function of the affected hand and fingers.
• Sensation Tests: Your doctor may assess sensation in your hand and fingers by applying touch or heat stimulation.
• Strength Tests: Your doctor may assess the strength of your hand and forearm muscles to determine if there is weakness.
• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of your muscles and nerves to determine if there is compression on the median nerve.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome may include a combination of conservative therapies and, in severe cases, surgery. Some treatment options include:

• Conservative Therapy: This may include resting the affected hand and fingers, stretching and strengthening exercises, and wearing a wrist brace or bandage to reduce pressure on the median nerve and control swelling.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Modifying repetitive activities or changing jobs may help prevent or improve symptoms.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory and pain relievers can help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve mobility and strength in the affected hand and fingers.
• Surgery: In severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual anatomy of each patient. It is important to speak with an orthopedic surgeon to determine the best treatment option for each case.