Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition that occurs when the median nerve is pinched or compressed in the wrist. The median nerve runs from your forearm to your palm.
CTS is one of the most widely recognized and common entrapment neuropathy in which the peripheral nerves of the body are compressed.
Symptom
Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually begin gradually with frequent tingling, burning, numbness or itching in the fingers or palms. Fingers may feel swollen and useless with little or no visible swelling. Symptoms usually appear at night because most people usually sleep with their wrists flexed.
The patient may wake up with a feeling of wanting to move their wrist or hand. Some people cannot tell the difference between hot and cold by touch. Some may have difficulty forming a fist or gripping small objects due to reduced grip strength.
Reason
That CTS syndrome It can be caused by a variety of factors that affect the median nerve. This can be caused by injury or trauma to the wrist that results in swelling, such as fractures or sprains, rheumatoid arthritis, an underactive thyroid gland, and an overactive pituitary gland.
CTS syndrome can also occur due to mechanical problems in the wrist joint, work stress, continuous use of vibrating hand tools, development of tumors or cysts, and fluid retention during menopause or pregnancy.
risk factor
Carpal tunnel syndrome only occurs in adults. Women are usually three times more likely to develop CTS than men. This is because the carpal tunnel tends to be smaller in women when compared to men. The hand that is most affected is usually the hand that is dominant and produces the most pain. People who have diabetes or other metabolic problems that affect the nerves are at increased risk for CTS.
This condition tends to be common in people who work on assembly lines such as sewing, cleaning, manufacturing, finishing, and packing fish, meat, and poultry. This condition is more common among assemblers than in data entry personnel.
Diagnosis
During the diagnosis process, your doctor will ask about any health problems you have, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism or arthritis or if you are pregnant. Your doctor will also ask if you have had any recent neck, wrist or arm pain.
You should tell your doctor about your daily routine and any other activities that may have injured your wrist. You may also have tests such as nerve or blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and electrodiagnostic tests.
Treatment
Mild CTS symptoms are usually handled using home care services. You must stop activities that trigger pain or numbness. You should also rest your wrists, especially between activities. You can also put your wrists in the ice for 15 minutes at least twice every hour. You can relieve pain by taking NSAIDs and using a wrist splint to reduce pressure on the meridian nerves. Surgery is also an option, especially for severe cases of CTS.
Research on carpal tunnel syndrome is ongoing. This is because scientists and doctors are trying to find causes and cures for this condition. With early diagnosis and effective treatment, you will be able to manage this disease. Your doctor will choose the right treatment regimen that fits your needs.
