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What is the carpal tunnel?
The carpal tunnel is a channel in the underside of the wrist trough which tendons we use to bend the fingers and wrist and the median nerve run. The median nerve also controls some of the muscles that move the thumb.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
This syndrome is caused when the median nerve is squashed in the carpal tunnel. About 3% of the population develop carpal tunnel syndrome at some time in their lives. Its more common in women than men. Most cases occur in people in their 40's and 50's, but it can occur at any age. Pregnant women can also be affected.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
'Pins and needles'. The index and middle fingers are usually first to be affected.
Pain or aching in the same fingers may then develop. The pain may travel up the forearm.
Numbness in the fingers or palm, may develop if the condition becomes worse.
Weakness of some muscles in the fingers and/or thumb occurs in severe cases. This may cause poor grip and eventually lead to wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb.
Symptoms vary from mild to severe depending on how 'squashed' the median nerve becomes. One or both hands may be affected. Symptoms tend to come and go at first, often after you use the hand. Typically, symptoms are worse at night and may wake you up. The symptoms may be eased for a while by raising the hand up or hanging it down. 'Flicking' the wrist may also give relief. Symptoms persist all the time if the condition becomes severe.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Its not sure just exactly what causes carpal tunnel syndrome, but its widely thought that repetitive movement of the hands and wrists is a major cause. If there is mild inflammation and swelling this can cuase the Median nerve to become squashed and painful. Bone or arthritic conditions of the wrist such as rheumatoid arthritis or wrist fractures may also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Various other conditions are associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. For example: pregnancy, obesity, an underactive thyroid, diabetes, the menopause.
What are the treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Try not to over-use your wrist by squeezing, gripping, wringing, typing etc. Painkillers may be prescribed to ease the pain.
Doing nothing is an option, particularly if symptoms are mild. In some cases it can just mend itself over time, many cases that develop during pregnancy go after the baby is born.
Steriod injections or tablets may be prescribed by your doctor.
A wrist brace or splint to keep the wrist in a fixed position and 'rested' may cure the problem. It should be worn for a few weeks especially at night.
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